Galkaio, 29 October 2026 — The Media Association of Puntland (MAP), in partnership with Free Press Unlimited (FPU) under the Danwadaag project, held a multistakeholder forum in Galkaio on 27–28 October 2026 to strengthen the media’s role in disaster preparedness and improve coordination with local authorities, civil society and disaster management institutions.
The forum addressed the absence of an established channel for coordinating disaster communication. Participants identified practical ways to improve media access to verified information and strengthen joint outreach, ensuring communities receive timely warnings and clear guidance on protective action.
Discussions also highlighted the continuing displacement of households affected by standing water, underscoring the need for coordinated interventions and reliable public information on response measures, health risks and available support.
“Journalists need reliable contacts and timely information to serve communities effectively. We are ready to strengthen these relationships so that accurate warnings reach people in time to act,” said Burhan Abdi, a media participant.
Linking disaster preparedness with public health, the forum examined community awareness efforts, Ministry of Health engagement and planned mosquito spraying to address risks associated with standing water. Reports of suspected cholera reinforced the importance of verifying health information and communicating clear protective guidance.
To strengthen the media’s role in disaster risk management, participants recommended involving at least two reporters regularly in awareness campaigns. Funding constraints remain, although the Somali Red Crescent Society expressed willingness to support fuel costs for outreach vehicles.
Participants across all groups expressed readiness to sustain cooperation beyond the forum through regular information-sharing, coordinated media outreach and joint action on flooding and related health risks.
“The willingness to cooperate is clear. Our task now is to turn it into lasting working relationships, where information flows regularly and journalists have the access they need to keep communities informed and prepared,” said Naima Muse, MAP Secretary General.
The forum also highlighted the role of public communication in strengthening accountability. Reliable information allows communities to understand preparedness measures, raise concerns and engage with the institutions responsible for their safety.
MAP called on participating institutions and organizations to carry these priorities into practical action: maintain direct communication, provide timely updates on interventions and involve media consistently in community outreach. Sustaining these connections will help communities understand the response, raise concerns and take informed steps to protect their health and safety.
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