Mogadishu (SONNA) – The Somali Media Council, established on March 14th this year upon the proposal of the Ministry of Information and unanimous approval by the cabinet, has successfully conducted its first official election. This landmark event signifies a significant step forward in the council’s mission to unify and advance the Somali media landscape.
The council comprises nine members, with representation from state media, private media, and civil society. Initially chaired in an interim capacity by Mohamed Shil Hassan, the council today held an open and fair election overseen by a dedicated election committee. Candidates for the positions of Chair and Deputy Chair presented brief statements before the commencement of voting. After the ballots were counted, the election committee announced the new leaders.
Abdirahman Mohamed Adan (Koronto) Elected as Chairman
Veteran journalist Abdirahman Mohamed Adan, widely known as Koronto, has been elected as the Chairman of the Somali Media Council. With an extensive career spanning roles such as Output Editor of the Somali Section of the BBC World Service, TV and radio programs editor at Horn Afrique Media Network, and English language programs editor at Radio Mogadishu, Abdirahman brings a wealth of experience. He worked for the BBC World Service for over 16 years in various capacities, including correspondent, reporter, presenter, news reader, and producer. He is currently the East Africa Editor for Somali Cable TV and the founder of a media research consultancy that has undertaken various media-related projects in Somalia, Kenya, and the United Kingdom, including leading training programs for Somali media. He holds an advanced university degree in broadcast journalism from Westminster University in London.
Fatuma Yusuf Saeed (Taxadar) Elected as Deputy Chairwoman
Fatuma Yusuf Saeed, affectionately known as Taxadar, has been elected as the Deputy Chairwoman. An eloquent and experienced journalist, Fatuma currently serves at BBC Somali Service and has worked with various media companies. Miss Saeed has over a decade of experience in radio and TV. Her professional journey includes working with BBC, UN Radio Ergo, Radio Daljir, and SBC, where she has served in leadership positions as well. She was also the Director of One Nation Radio.
The newly elected leadership has pledged to focus on unity and the development of Somali media as a whole. Their goal is to strengthen the role of the media in fostering societal and national development, ensuring that the media continues to play an important role in Somalia’s progress.
