Baidoa City, Tuesday, 18 February 2025: The Somali Media Association (SOMA), with the support of IMS, successfully concluded a three-day training on journalists’ safety and protection, held from February 16 to 18, 2025, at Ruunjinaad Hotel and Restaurant in Baidoa.
The training aimed to equip journalists with essential skills to navigate security challenges in their profession. The program was officially opened by SOMA Secretary-General, Mohamed Abduwahab, who emphasized the importance of the training and encouraged participants to engage and apply the knowledge gained fully. A total of 22 journalists (10 women and 12 men) from various media organizations took part in the sessions.
Key topics covered included situational awareness, risk assessment, vehicle travel safety, and security forces and the media. The training was facilitated by media safety experts, providing participants with practical tools and knowledge to enhance their security while working in the field.
Participants expressed appreciation for the comprehensive nature of the training. Mohamed Idow, “I have attended several training sessions in Baidoa, but this was the first safety training that covered such a wide range of topics. The practical sessions, particularly on emergency response, were invaluable.”
Abdirashid Ahmed, “While reporting on a conflict between two clans, I discussed key details with colleagues in the journalism field. Unfortunately, some of this information was leaked to the police. As a result, I received a call from the police, instructing me not to publish the report. Through this training, I have gained a deeper understanding of the importance of safeguarding sensitive information and exercising caution in professional interactions.”
Shukri Ismail, “In the past, I unknowingly put myself at risk due to a lack of awareness about prioritizing my safety. One day, I traveled to a nearby village for an assignment without a security guard. Upon arrival, I was informed that that Al-Shabaab operatives were present in the area. if I had been trained on journalist safety earlier, I would have conducted a proper risk assessment beforehand. Moving forward, I will fully apply the knowledge gained from this training to enhance my safety. I sincerely appreciate SOMA and IMS for organizing this invaluable training and urge more safety training programs for journalists.”
The training was officially closed by the Director-General of the Ministry of Information and Public Awareness of Southwest State Omar Mustafa, who commended the initiative and complemented SOMA on its efforts to keep journalists safe while working in high-risk environments. Director-General Omar Mustafa, alongside Secretary-General Mohamed Abduwahab presented a certificate of attendance to the participants in recognition of their successful completion of the training.
In conclusion, The Somali Media Association remains committed to promoting the safety and well-being of journalists across Somalia. By equipping media professionals with essential security knowledge and practical tools, such initiatives contribute to a safer and more resilient press.
SOMA extends its gratitude to IMS for its continued support and urges further investment in journalist safety training to ensure media professionals can operate without fear orย intimidation.
