HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) Somaliland’s Minister of Information, Culture and National Guidance, Barkhad Jama Hersi Batun, has announced an ambitious national strategy aimed at strengthening independent media, improving journalistic standards, and developing a comprehensive National Public Awareness Policy designed to reinforce national unity and counter misinformation.
The announcement was made during the 68th session of the Somaliland Council of Ministers, chaired by President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) and attended by Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, according to an official statement released by the Somaliland Presidency.
During the cabinet meeting, ministers reviewed several national priorities, including the future of Somaliland’s media sector and the government’s strategy for strengthening public awareness and national communication.
National Plan to Register and Improve Independent Media
Minister Barkhad Jama Hersi Batun informed the Cabinet that the Ministry of Information has finalized preparations for a National Media Development Plan that will register, organize, and improve the quality of independent media organizations operating across Somaliland.
According to the minister, the initiative is designed to raise professional standards within the country’s media industry by improving journalists’ knowledge, technical skills, ethical practices, and professional accountability.
The strategy also seeks to modernize Somaliland’s media landscape, ensuring that news organizations operate responsibly while supporting democratic governance, public education, and national development.
The minister emphasized that the government’s objective is to build a modern, credible, and independent media sector capable of providing accurate information, promoting informed public debate, and protecting Somaliland’s national interests.
He noted that professional journalism remains essential in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring citizens receive reliable information.
National Public Awareness Policy Under Development
The information minister Barkhad Batun also briefed the Council of Ministers on the Ministry’s ongoing work to develop Somaliland’s National Public Awareness Policy, which is expected to become the government’s primary framework for coordinating national communication and public education campaigns.
The policy aims to unify government messaging while increasing public understanding of issues considered vital to Somaliland’s national interests.
According to the minister, the framework will focus on:
Promoting national unity and shared values.
Strengthening civic awareness and public participation.
Improving public understanding of national priorities.
Supporting responsible communication across government institutions.
Enhancing resilience against misinformation and disinformation.
The minister explained that the policy will play a significant role in building a well-informed society capable of identifying false information while supporting Somaliland’s long-term development agenda and national objectives.
He added that the initiative is particularly important during what he described as a sensitive period for the country, where accurate information and responsible public communication are increasingly vital.
Minister Praises Somaliland Media Coverage of President Irro’s Israel Visit
Minister Barkhad Batun also presented a detailed briefing on the international media coverage surrounding President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro)’s official visit to Israel.
He informed the Cabinet that international news organizations closely followed the presidential visit, highlighting its diplomatic significance and the growing international attention surrounding Somaliland’s foreign policy engagements.
The minister further commended Somaliland’s domestic media outlets for what he described as their professional and responsible reporting throughout the visit.
He praised local journalists and media organizations for their commitment to accurately covering the President’s diplomatic mission while promoting Somaliland’s national interests and presenting developments to both domestic and international audiences.
According to the minister, the extensive media coverage demonstrated the increasing professionalism of Somaliland’s journalism sector and its contribution to promoting the country’s national identity, diplomatic outreach, and international visibility.
The Cabinet was told that strengthening professional journalism and implementing a unified national communication strategy remain key priorities of the Somaliland government as it continues to advance governance reforms, public awareness initiatives, and international engagement.
Prepared By:
Horn Post Staff
Hargeisa, Somaliland
