MOGADISHU (Hornpost) — Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Daoud Aweys Jama, has met with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, Ambassador James Swan, to discuss security, national reconciliation, elections and the role of the media in the country’s development.
The meeting took place at the minister’s office in Mogadishu. Both sides discussed Somalia’s political and security priorities and the progress made by the Federal Government in rebuilding state institutions.
Media’s Role in Somalia’s National Priorities
During the meeting, Minister Daoud Aweys highlighted the importance of national media in supporting the country’s key priorities.
Their discussions covered efforts to combat Al-Shabaab, promote national reconciliation and advance the electoral process.
The minister also stressed the importance of responsible media coverage in informing the public about government programmes and national developments.
Both officials exchanged views on the challenges facing Somalia and the need for continued cooperation between national institutions and international partners.
Somalia’s Security Transition and AUSSOM
The minister briefed Ambassador Swan on the federal government’s progress in improving national security.
He highlighted the role of the Somali National Armed Forces in ongoing security operations against Al-Shabaab.
The discussions also focused on plans to strengthen the capacity of Somali security forces to take greater responsibility for national security as international security support evolves under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
The minister stressed the importance of preparing Somali forces to protect the country and maintain security across federal member states.
Constitution Review and Electoral Process
Minister Daoud Aweys also updated the UN representative on progress in reviewing Somalia’s provisional constitution.
He discussed the government’s plans to advance a people-based electoral system, under which citizens would directly participate in choosing their representatives.
The proposed electoral process was among the key issues discussed, particularly the government’s plans for elections in 2025 and 2026.
The minister said constitutional reforms and electoral preparations remain important parts of the government’s political agenda.
UN Reaffirms Support for Somalia
For his part, Ambassador James Swan welcomed the progress made by the Federal Government of Somalia.
He reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Somalia’s state-building efforts and strengthening cooperation with government institutions.
The UN representative also expressed the organisation’s readiness to continue working with Somalia on security, governance and national development.
Visit to National Media Archives
Following their discussions, Minister Daoud Aweys and Ambassador James Swan visited the National Media’s Central Tape Archives.
The visit provided an opportunity to review part of the country’s historical broadcasting records and the role of national media in documenting Somalia’s history.
The archives preserve important recordings that reflect the country’s political, cultural and social developments.
At the end of the meeting, the minister thanked the United Nations for its longstanding support to Somalia over the past three decades.
He said international assistance had contributed significantly to rebuilding government institutions and supporting the country’s recovery.
Hornpost Staff Reporter
