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MOGADISHU — H.E. Daud Aweis Jama, Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia, received today at his office in Mogadishu Mr. George Conway, the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, as reported by the Somali National News Agency (SONNA).
The meeting focused on exploring ways to enhance joint cooperation between the Ministry of Information and the United Nations, particularly in the areas of media engagement, raising public awareness, developing humanitarian response mechanisms, and the pivotal role of media during emergencies.
Both officials reviewed the importance of aligning communication efforts between the Federal Government and UN agencies to ensure the delivery of accurate and reliable information to the public in a timely manner, especially during humanitarian crises that require high-level media coordination.
During the meeting, the Minister reaffirmed Somalia’s readiness, represented by the Ministry of Information, to strengthen the partnership with the international organization, with a particular emphasis on delivering vital awareness messages to rural communities and remote areas to ensure inclusive access to information.
H.E. Daud Aweis noted that raising awareness among the most vulnerable segments of society is a top priority for the Ministry, considering responsible media as the most effective tool for empowering citizens and providing them with information that ensures their safety and fundamental rights.
For his part, the UN official praised the role played by the Somali Ministry of Information in leading national awareness campaigns, affirming the United Nations’ commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at building a robust media system capable of addressing current challenges.
The meeting touched upon ways to build the capacity of national media cadres through implementing specialized training programs for journalists on media coverage mechanisms during crises and how to handle humanitarian information with professionalism and objectivity.
Both parties discussed mechanisms to enhance institutional coordination between government entities and UN agencies in implementing public awareness programs, ensuring the integration of roles, avoiding information conflict, and achieving the maximum possible response to societal needs.
The meeting emphasized that digital and traditional media in Somalia represent a strategic partner in the path of development and stability, and that enhancing the skills of media professionals directly contributes to supporting national recovery plans and the advancement of Somali society.
Concluding the talks, both sides agreed on establishing a joint framework to intensify cooperation in the coming period, serving Somalia’s aspirations to build an informed knowledge-based society and contributing to the enhancement of humanitarian and social security across the country.
This high-level meeting reflects the deep understanding that media is not merely a transmitter of news, but a fundamental pillar in the national and humanitarian security system. By strengthening her partnership with the United Nations, Somalia reaffirms her determination to craft a modern media discourse characterized by transparency and responsibility, placing the dignity and safety of the Somali individual at the heart of the communication message, thereby enhancing the prospects for lasting stability and comprehensive prosperity.
