The Somali Media Association (SOMA), represented by its Secretary General, Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi, participated in the Mashreq Media Conference 2026, held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 31 October to 1 November 2026.
The conference brought together media professionals, academics, institutional communication experts, and other stakeholders to discuss the future of the media industry, emerging technological developments, and the challenges and opportunities shaping the media landscape.
A key focus of the conference was the impact of digital transformation on journalism, institutional communication, media business models, and the future of media organizations. Discussions highlighted the growing influence of digital platforms and artificial intelligence, the changing relationship between media institutions and audiences, and the need for media organizations to adapt to an increasingly technology-driven environment.
As part of the conference, Mohamed Abduwahab participated in a panel discussion titled “Media and Institutional Communication in the Era of Digital Transformation.” The discussion explored how media institutions can respond to technological changes, improve institutional communication, and address the challenges associated with the rapidly evolving digital environment.
His participation provided an opportunity to bring perspectives from Somalia’s media sector into broader regional and international discussions, while strengthening professional engagement and opportunities for cooperation with media stakeholders from different countries.
The participation also reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that Somali media professionals and institutions remain actively engaged in international conversations on media innovation, digital transformation, professional journalism, and the future of the media industry.
The Somali Media Association remains committed to promoting professional journalism, strengthening media institutions, supporting digital media development, and building partnerships that contribute to a more sustainable and professional media sector in Somalia.
