Mogadishu, Somalia, Saturday, 25 January, 2025: – The Somali Mechanism for the Safety of Journalists Members (SMSJ) held its regular council meeting in Mogadishu, 23 January 2025, bringing together representatives of its seven-member organizations to discuss the progress, challenges, and strategic direction of the organization. The meeting culminated in the election of a new leadership team tasked with advancing SMSJ’s mission to protect and support Somali journalists.
During the meeting, members reviewed the key achievements of the past three years and identified obstacles that have hindered progress. A comprehensive strategic plan for the next two years was also deliberated, focusing on safeguarding the rights of Somali journalists and enhancing support mechanisms within the media landscape.
As part of the agenda, SMSJ elected new leaders to steer the organization:
– Secretary-General: Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi, Secretary of SOMA.
– Chairperson: Hassan Ali Gesey, Chairperson of SIMHA.
– Deputy Chairperson: Farxiye Kheyre, Chairperson of SWJO.
In his remarks, the newly elected Secretary-General, Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi, emphasized his dedication to revitalizing SMSJ’s operations:
“I was the first chairperson of SMSJ when it was established seven years ago. I am committed to working tirelessly to ensure SMSJ fulfills its founding mandate and achieves meaningful results over the next two years.”
Similarly, the new Chairperson, Hassan Ali Gesey, reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the council achieves its goals:
“Having held this position before, I understand the challenges and opportunities ahead. I will strive to lead SMSJ to new heights, and I urge all members to collaborate with us for the betterment of Somali journalists.”
The meeting brought together representatives from the seven member organizations of SMSJ, including:
1. Mohamed Abduwahab Abdullahi (Secretary of SOMA)
2. Mohamed Dahir Warsame (Chairperson of MAP)
3. Hassan Ali Gesey (Chairperson of SIMHA)
4. Leylo Osman Mohamud (Deputy Chairperson of SWJO)
5. Shamso Abdirahman Mohamed (Director of MWN)
6. Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul (Secretary of Information, SJS)
7. Abadir Abdulkadir Elmi (Chairperson of FESOJ)
The one-day meeting concluded with unanimous support for the new leadership, along with prayers for their success in advancing the goals of SMSJ.
SMSJ remains committed to its mission of supporting Somali journalists and advocating for their rights while enhancing the resilience and capacity of the media sector.
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