Garowe, Puntland, September 10, 2025 – Gashaan Legal and Consultancy Services, in collaboration with the Media Association of Puntland (MAP) and with support from Free Press Unlimited (FPU), convened a high-level validation workshop in Garowe to review the newly developed Specialized Training Curriculum on Freedom of Expression and Media Law for Puntland Lawyers.
The workshop brought together representatives from the Puntland Bar Association, civil society organizations, media houses, and MAP’s Board of Directors. The strong participation reflected a shared commitment to equipping lawyers with the tools needed to defend press freedom and uphold constitutional guarantees.
Mohamed Dahir Warsame, Chairperson of MAP, in his opening remarks, emphasized the urgent need to strengthen media defense in Puntland, stating:
“One of the biggest challenges our journalists face is the lack of lawyers trained in media law, leaving cases without proper defense. MAP will use this curriculum to train lawyers, strengthen media defense, and better protect journalists’ rights in Puntland.”
In his opening remarks, Eng. Mohamed Isse Osman, Director General of the Puntland Ministry of Information, praised the curriculum as a key step in advancing freedom of expression and safeguarding journalists’ rights.
He noted that the Puntland Media Council, responsible for handling complaints against journalists and media outlets, has struggled with financial instability since its 2019 establishment.
Eng. Isse emphasized: “If we want a stronger media environment, we must ensure the Puntland Media Council is revived and equipped to play its rightful role in protecting both the public interest and journalists’ rights.”
The curriculum, presented by Gashaan Legal, is the first of its kind in Puntland. It was developed through extensive legal reviews, consultations, and focus group discussions, and is designed to close critical gaps in legal defense for journalists.
Organized into 11 modules, it covers constitutional protections, Puntland’s Media Law, international treaties, legal ethics, litigation and case preparation, digital media and cyber law, and gender inclusion in freedom of expression.
Ahmed, Head of Gashaan Legal, stated: “For too long, the lack of specialized legal knowledge has left journalists in Puntland exposed to arbitrary arrests and unfair prosecutions. This curriculum is a milestone—it will enable lawyers to defend journalists more effectively and uphold the principles enshrined in Puntland’s Constitution and international law.”
The validation workshop provided a platform for participants to review the curriculum and offer recommendations, ensuring it reflects Puntland’s legal context while aligning with international best practices. We also commend Gashaan Legal for their pivotal role in developing this well-crafted curriculum.
The feedback and insights gathered during the workshop will now be incorporated to finalize the curriculum. MAP looks forward to rolling out statewide training programs for lawyers, fostering a capable and sustainable network of legal defenders committed to upholding freedom of expression across Puntland.
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