Galkacyo, Mudug, Somalia – May 4, 2025
In a significant stride toward fostering responsible journalism and promoting peace, the Centre for Peace and Democracy (CPD), in collaboration with the Galmudug Ministry of Interior, concluded a four-day intensive Media Literacy Training in Galkacyo. The workshop equipped 80 journalists—including social media influencers, media professionals, and representatives from Inter-State Media Councils—with essential tools for ethical and conflict-sensitive reporting.
Empowering Media for Peace
The training underscored the media’s pivotal role as both a tool for reconciliation and a potential catalyst for conflict escalation. Participants engaged in thought-provoking sessions on conflict-sensitive reporting, strategies to combat misinformation, and methods to amplify peace narratives through digital platforms.
“Media is a powerful double-edged sword. This workshop has reinforced our responsibility to use it ethically—ensuring that our stories inspire dialogue rather than division,” remarked Mohamed Abdullahi Sidhi , a TV correspondent and social media influencer.
A section of Journalist on a group discussion during the media literacy training in Galkacyo, Mudug Region
Strengthening Ethical Journalism
Integrity, accuracy, and accountability were key themes throughout the training, reinforcing journalists’ commitment to professional standards. Practical exercises on fact-checking, narrative framing, and investigative journalism strengthened participants’ ability to combat fake news and misinformation.
Reflecting on the training’s impact, Abdirashid Ahmed Erig, a freelance journalist , shared:
“This training revealed my role as a key peace stakeholder. I now recognise the power of radio to inform—and to heal.”
Similarly, social media influencers discovered how their platforms can contribute to peacebuilding efforts.
“I never imagined TikTok could be used to promote peace. I now see how I can influence clans to coexist peacefully,” Mohamed Abdirahman Aarka , a popular TikToker.
Charting the Path Forward
With newly acquired media literacy skills, journalists vowed to champion ethical journalism, reject misinformation, and contribute to peacebuilding initiatives in Somalia. Policy improvements and continued capacity-building efforts were recommended to sustain the training’s impact.
At the closing session, Bedel Liban Ali, Deputy Governor of Mudug Region, applauded the initiative, emphasizing the critical role of media in fostering dialogue:
“Meeting influential journalists, social media figures, and media representatives has been an inspiring experience. These platforms not only foster dialogue but also renew our hope for peace and cohesion. With your continued support, I believe we can achieve lasting peace in the near future.”
The training was implemented by CPD in collaboration with PSA and funded by the Somalia Stability Fund (SSF) under a CARE International Somalia-led Consortium.
This workshop marks another milestone in strengthening ethical journalism and ensuring media remains a force for peace rather than division.
Journalists actively engaging in a media literacy training session in Galkacyo, Mudug Region,
A section of local media reporters participating in a media literacy training held at Galkacyo, Mudug Region
A section of local media reporters participating in a media literacy training held at Galkacyo, Mudug Region
Bedel Shiekh, Mudug region deputy governor participating in a media literacy training at Galkacyo