The Media Association of Puntland (MAP) in partnership with the Free Press Unlimited (FPU) under the Danwadaag project has successfully concluded a transformative five-day induction program for its newly elected Board of Directors at Dreampoint Hotel, Garowe.
Held from August 25 to 29, the intensive training honed in on governance, strategic planning, and crisis management—cornerstones of MAP’s mission to safeguard press freedom and protect journalists’ rights across Puntland.
This induction was designed to arm the new Board with the critical knowledge and skills to lead MAP effectively and tackle the evolving challenges facing the media landscape.
Central to the event was the development of a new Crisis Management and Communication Policy, equipping MAP to handle potential crises such as media shutdowns, journalist arrests, and internal conflicts. The policy emphasizes proactive planning, rapid response, and strategic recovery to uphold press freedom, combat misinformation, and maintain public trust.
“This induction marks a pivotal moment in strengthening MAP’s governance and operational strategies. By aligning our Board with our strategic vision and bolstering our crisis management capabilities, we are positioned to robustly advocate for journalists’ rights and uphold media integrity in Puntland. Together, we are building a resilient and forward-looking organization,” stated Naima Musse, Secretary General of MAP.
The induction also introduced Board members to MAP’s comprehensive internal policies, including its bylaws, financial policies, advocacy manuals, and governance documents. These sessions equipped the Board with essential tools for strong leadership and informed decision-making.
A key highlight was the unveiling of the MAP Multi-Annual Strategic Plan (2024-2026), setting a bold course for the next three years. The plan focuses on enhancing media excellence, promoting public engagement for transparent governance, defending journalists’ rights, and ensuring MAP’s sustainability.
“We are at a crucial juncture where strong governance and strategic crisis management are indispensable. This induction has provided our Board with the skills and tools needed to anticipate challenges, protect our journalists, and advocate for press freedom. The steps we are taking today will shape a more resilient and unified MAP,” said Ibrahim Mohamed, Project Manager at MAP.
Throughout the training, Board members engaged in dynamic discussions on crisis identification and risk management, covering threats such as legal challenges, technological disruptions, reputational risks, and operational hurdles. They delved into strategies for mitigating these risks, from forming a dedicated crisis management team and establishing clear communication channels to leveraging strategic advocacy to defend press freedom.
“This induction has been a significant milestone in preparing our Board to lead MAP with confidence and clarity,” added MAP Chairperson Mohamed Dahir Warsame. “We are committed to implementing a robust governance framework and a proactive crisis management approach that will empower us to navigate any challenge while steadfastly defending press freedom.”
With a renewed sense of purpose and strategic direction, the new Board members are ready to steer MAP toward its goals, ensuring a safer and more resilient environment for journalists in Puntland. The event concluded with a pledge to continuous learning, collaboration, and proactive leadership, reinforcing MAP’s vital role as a defender of press freedom and a champion for journalists across Puntland.
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