By Goth Mohamed Goth
Hargeisa, Somaliland– Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Mohamed Ali Aw Adbi, in his capacity as Chairman of the National Drought Committee, alongside committee members, convened a pivotal meeting with representatives of diverse independent media outlets operating across Somaliland.
The meeting aimed to foster nationwide coordination and a unified response to the severe drought crisis and humanitarian relief efforts impacting significant portions of Somaliland’s population.
A primary objective was to discuss the indispensable role of the Independent Media (encompassing both traditional and modern outlets) in supporting the rescue and recovery of communities devastated by the drought.
Addressing attendees, the Vice President and committee members underscored the media’s critical position as the “eyes and voice” of the Somaliland people, uniquely capable of amplifying the distress signals and urgent needs arising from the drought to a broad audience.
The National Drought Committee emphasized that mitigating this disaster is a shared religious and humanitarian imperative binding upon every Somalilander, with particular responsibility falling upon media professionals and journalists.
Committee members stressed the nation is enduring an unprecedented period marked by thirst, hunger, disease, and displacement. They urged the media to utilize the “gift of speech” bestowed by Allah to:
1. Intensify public awareness campaigns.
2. Vigorously encourage mutual aid, solidarity, donations, and support for affected citizens.
Representatives from the Independent Media and the Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) affirmed their full readiness to actively participate and shoulder their responsibility within the drought relief efforts.
During discussions, Independent Media representatives committed to:
1. Actively participating in public awareness mobilization.
2. Disseminating urgent information regarding humanitarian needs in drought-affected regions.
3. Proactively encouraging relief contributions for impacted communities.
They further requested the National Committee share essential information and relief plans promptly to facilitate accurate, fact-based reporting.
Vice President’s Concluding Call to Action
Concluding the meeting, Vice President and Committee Chairman Mohamed Ali Aw Adbi issued a direct appeal to the Independent Media:
1. Amplify Communications: Redouble efforts to convey government messages and the urgent appeals of drought-affected communities.
2. Champion Donations: Actively promote and encourage vital relief donations.
3. Connect and Move: Ensure reporting delivers messages that”touch the hearts and consciences”** of the Somaliland people.
4. Build Bridges: Let media coverage serve as “bridges effectively connecting those in desperate need with potential donors.”
