The Somali Federal Government along with The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) have jointly unveiled in Mogadishu a new strategy in strengthening the significant role that the media play in the efforts against terrorism and extremist ideologies.
The new program named as the “Peace Journalists” is designed to upgrade the knowledge and the skills of local journalists, so as to play a crucial role in raising public awareness and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies.
The Defense Minister of Somalia’s Federal Government, Mr. Ahmed Ma’alin Fiqi, speaking at the event held in Mogadishu, has announced that Somalia has been engaged in a war with the extremist groups for over 20 years. At the same time, the government is currently focusing on a multifaceted strategy.
He further pointed out that the war cannot be limited to military operations, but requires addressing the ideological, economic, security and media dimensions.
He disclosed that the media play a significant role in informing and educating the public as well as preventing the spread of propaganda by the extremist groups.
The plan also entails training local journalists and social media influencers, so as to disseminate factual information, strengthen peace messages, and warn against the public misleading influence targeting, in particular, the youth.
Somali officials have welcomed the IMCTC and Saudi Arabia support, noting that such these projects will be part of the ongoing efforts which are aimed at rebuilding the operational capabilities of Somali government institutions, and strengthening the international cooperation in combating extremist groups.
