FESOJ Concluded training on media safety and freedom of expression for journalists and police officers in Beledweyne city, Hirshabelle State, ahead of election

Mogadishu, Somalia, October 27, 2021: The Federation of Somali Journalists (FESOJ) concluded a two–day training workshop for 25 journalists and five police officers on freedom of expression, the safety of journalists and public order in Beledweyne city, Hirshabelle State ahead of the elections in Somalia

The training conducted in cooperation with the Finnish Foundation for Media and Development (VIKES) with funding from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland has been held from October 26 – 27, 2021, at Iyow Guest House, Beledweyne city, Hirshabelle State.

The training focused on freedom of expression, journalists’ safety and public order.

Farah Omar Nur, Secretary-General of FESOJ, indicated that Beledweyn city was chosen as the venue for the training program. Its historical city has a river, agricultural land, livestock, and commercial hub.

He said the journalists and the police officers who received the training were influential. The two-day training showed resilience and understanding in working together for their region and Somalia.

Hussein Abdi Jimale, one of the participants, pointed out the training was valuable as police officers and journalists attended it. H noted the discussions between them and the police has cleared up previously existing challenges and found a way for the journalists and the police to work together during the elections

Captain Arab Yusuf Nur, acting commander of Beledweyne Police Station of Hiran region attending the workshop said the training jointly participated by the police and the journalists will address many issues including the safety of the journalists.

In his closing remarks, Abdirahman Mohamed Hussein, Deputy District Commissioner for social affairs mentioned the journalists are the ones who guide the community towards the good path, and the training they have taken with the police will lead to cooperation to correct the daily works of the two parties at this time of national elections.

The 25 journalists participating in the training workshop have benefited from receiving a printed copy of the booklet entitled “Journalists Know Your Rights” intended to raise their awareness and understanding of issues relating to their labour rights.

FESOJ, in partnership with VIKES, has been conducting similar training programs related to freedom of speech, the safety of journalists and maintaining public order for the journalists and the police operating at the various regional states of Somalia.

End

For further information, you may contact us
Midnimo Building ,Maka Almukarama road Waberi
Mogadishu-Somalia
+2526-851918
Email: info@fesoj.org
Website: www.fesoj.org
Twitter: @FESOJ_Somalia
Facebook: Federation of Somali Journalists FESOJ