Mogadishu, Somalia – The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia, Daud Aweis, officially opened the National Policy Consultation Meeting on Managing the Risks of Social Media Misuse in Mogadishu.
The high-level meeting brought together government officials, civil society actors, media professionals, legal experts, and representatives from youth and women’s groups to discuss the growing impact of social media in Somalia — particularly its misuse and the associated risks to national security, public safety, and social cohesion.
In his opening remarks, Aweis emphasized the importance of safeguarding the digital space without infringing on the right to free expression.
“Social media is a powerful tool for communication and development, but its misuse can spread disinformation, incite violence, and fuel extremism. This consultation marks a critical step in shaping a national policy that promotes responsible use while protecting public interests,” he stated.
The meeting aims to develop a comprehensive framework to mitigate the harms of social media misuse, including cyberbullying, hate speech, online radicalization, and the spread of false information. Stakeholders are also expected to contribute to the formulation of practical guidelines, legal instruments, and public awareness campaigns.
Participants welcomed the initiative, underscoring the urgency of government-led efforts to regulate digital platforms in a manner consistent with democratic principles and human rights standards.
The consultation is part of a broader national digital governance strategy, which seeks to enhance cybersecurity, foster media literacy, and strengthen the institutional capacity of regulatory bodies in Somalia.
The outcomes of the meeting will inform the drafting of a national policy that will later be submitted for cabinet review and public input before its formal adoption.