MOGADISHU: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has appointed Abdifitah Qasim Mohamud as the new Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, replacing Daud Aweis Jama. The selection followed constitutional provisions and was made after consultations with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, reflecting the government’s response to expanding responsibilities. The Prime Minister called on the new minister to perform his duties with diligence and commitment.
The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism serves a key function in government messaging, cultural preservation, and tourism advancement. The ministry recently announced the establishment of Somalia’s first Media Satellite Teleport in over three decades to modernize the country’s media and communications landscape. Mohamud assumes the post at a critical time as Somalia approaches a pivotal electoral period, with the ministry actively working on initiatives to train journalists in ethical and responsible election coverage.
Outgoing minister Daud Aweis Jama had been actively engaged in international and domestic media diplomacy. Aweis recently convened a meeting with UN Deputy Special Representative George Conway to strengthen media and humanitarian collaboration. He also led efforts to enhance the capacity of journalists, launching a two-day training session on hate speech prevention in election reporting just days before his departure.
The transition comes amid broader government efforts to streamline cabinet performance. The Ministry of Information is expected to continue spearheading strategies to counter disinformation, support press freedom, and promote Somalia’s cultural heritage under its new leadership. The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a media environment that enables professionals to perform their duties with integrity, responsibility, and professionalism.
