Garowe, Puntland, October 30, 2024: The Media Association of Puntland (MAP), in partnership with Free Press Unlimited (FPU), has successfully concluded today in Garowe, a three-day training and media dialogue forum focused on enhancing disaster risk management (DRM) reporting among journalists in Puntland.
The event gathered 17 journalists from the districts of Garowe, Carmo, Waaciye, and Gardho. This forum is part of the Danwadaag program, which aims to strengthen government legitimacy by promoting effective DRM through accessible information and inclusive policies.
In his opening remarks, MAP Chair Mohamed Dahir commended the significant growth of local journalists, attributing this progress to MAP’s capacity-building initiatives launched in 2022 and its partnership with Free Press Unlimited (FPU), which has enhanced disaster reporting standards across the region. He emphasized that the Danwadaag program has transformed media coverage of disaster risk management (DRM) and established public forums, such as MAP town halls, that empower community voices.
Dahir recognized journalists for their dedication to covering the recent floods in Gardho, highlighting their vital role in informing the public and urging government officials to respond to pressing community needs. Their professional growth has enabled them to advocate effectively for essential infrastructure developments, such as improved drainage systems, to mitigate future flooding.
He further noted that Puntland’s Access to Information Act will enhance news quality and foster transparency, enabling journalists to collect and disseminate information more effectively. This, in turn, encourages a more informed and engaged citizenry, showcasing the transformative power of media in driving governmental action and building community resilience.
“As we gather for this training forum, we stand at the forefront of a transformative era for journalism in Puntland. Our commitment to capacity-building through the Danwadaag program is not just about enhancing disaster risk management reporting; it is about empowering local journalists to be the architects of change in their communities.
By fostering public forums that amplify citizen voices and hold leaders accountable, we envision a future where transparent and impactful media drives sustainable development and resilience in the face of adversity.” Mohamed Dahir, MAP Chair.
Eng. Mohamed Isse, Director General of the Puntland Ministry of Information, spoke at the opening session of the event, underscoring the media’s vital role in disaster risk management (DRM). He emphasized that reliable reporting serves as a lifeline for communities during crises, making the media their most trusted ally in times of disaster.
Eng. Isse echoed the MAP Chair’s sentiments regarding the significant value of the Access to Information Act for journalism in Puntland and urged media professionals to seize this opportunity to enhance the accuracy of their reporting. He also encouraged participants to expand their knowledge from the training and discussions by sharing insights with their colleagues upon returning to their respective newsrooms.
”I am pleased to be here at this significant gathering—my first media event since the unveiling of the Puntland Access to Information Act on October 19, 2024. This important legislation empowers journalists to access vital information that was previously difficult to obtain.
With this framework in place, we have a valuable opportunity to promote transparency and encourage public dialogue’’. Adding, Let us enhance our reporting standards and foster resilience within our communities.” Eng. Mohamed Isse, Director General of the Puntland Ministry of Information.
The program was pivotal in enhancing disaster risk management (DRM) reporting capabilities, fostering collaboration, and solidifying the media’s critical role in public awareness and crisis response. Journalists engaged deeply with their responsibilities in accurately reporting on disasters, tackling pressing issues such as flooding, drought, and disruptions to vital infrastructure, including the Bosaso-Garowe highway.
Beyond skill development, the forum placed a strong emphasis on policy and advocacy, crafting actionable recommendations aimed at transforming DRM media coverage. These insights will feed directly into a draft position paper for the Puntland media sector, establishing clear standards for accurate and impactful disaster reporting that can shape the future of media practices in the region.
A participant from the Bari region encapsulated the training’s importance, stating, “This forum equipped us with practical tools and instilled a profound sense of responsibility for disaster reporting. With the Access to Information Act, we are now better positioned to provide our communities with the vital information they need to respond and rebuild effectively.”
Through its collaboration with FPU, MAP is unwavering in its commitment to strengthening Puntland’s media sector, ensuring that journalists are prepared to inform and protect the public through reliable and proactive disaster reporting. This initiative exemplifies a shared vision for a more resilient and informed Puntland, where media serves as a cornerstone in navigating crises with clarity, accountability, and purpose.
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