Hargeisa, Somaliland – Somaliland Vice President Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, who also serves as Chair of the National Drought Relief Committee (NDRC), convened a high-level consultative meeting on Sunday with senior figures from Somaliland’s independent media sector.
The meeting, held in Hargeisa, formed part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen national coordination in tackling the prolonged drought that continues to grip communities across the country.
Vice President Aw Abdi underscored the urgent need for unified messaging and robust public communication as drought conditions threaten livelihoods and exacerbate humanitarian needs. He emphasized the indispensable role of the media in raising awareness, educating the public, and mobilizing both domestic and international support.
“The media is a pillar in our national resilience. Your voices can bring the reality of this crisis into homes, offices, and boardrooms, where action can be initiated,” said the Vice President.
Participants discussed how media outlets can partner with the NDRC to disseminate timely information, highlight vulnerable areas in need of assistance, and help coordinate public response efforts. The Vice President called on the media to prioritize accurate, conflict-sensitive reporting to ensure a well-informed and united national response.
Representatives from the press welcomed the initiative, pledging to intensify coverage of the drought and work closely with the NDRC to facilitate outreach, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
Somaliland, like much of the Horn of Africa, has been affected by recurring droughts intensified by climate change. According to government figures, thousands of households remain in urgent need of food, water, and basic health services.
Sunday’s meeting marks a key step in fostering cross-sectoral cooperation in the country’s ongoing drought relief efforts.