Somali journalist wins global award as crackdown on media intensifies

Somali journalist Abdalle Ahmed Mumin. A Somali journalist forced into exile after exposing corruption has won a prestigious global anti-corruption award as Somalia continues to target journalists and media groups. Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, co-founder and Secretary General of the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS), was honoured on Tuesday, July 1 with the 2025 Allard Prize for International Integrity during a ceremony in New York City. The award recognises efforts in fighting corruption and promoting human rights. "For over twenty years, I have put my life on the line for one belief: that journalism can expose corruption, demand accountability and protect the rights of the voiceless," noted Mumin. He explained that working as a journalist in Somalia remains dangerous, with the country among the deadliest places for reporters. At least 85 journalists have been killed in Somalia since 1992 according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Mumin observed that in 2022, Somali security forces raided the SJS office and detained him in what he described as a "kidnapping-style" arrest after the organisation criticised new government restrictions on media freedom. "I spent forty-four days in underground cells in different locations," explained Mumin. Mumin left Somalia in 2023 to complete a fellowship at the University of York in the United Kingdom but continued to face threats and surveillance. Despite his departure, Somali authorities have continued to pressure SJS and its members. In August 2023, Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul, Secretary for Information and Human Rights, was arrested after reporting on police corruption. Days later, the organisation's website suffered a cyberattack that disrupted operations. In January 2024, Somali intelligence forces raided a hotel in Mogadishu where SJS was conducting a training for female journalists, and in April, the organisation's bank accounts were frozen, forcing a temporary halt in activities. However, SJS has launched Baraarug, a civic rights digital campaign targeting youth and women in Somalia. The campaign reached more than one million people in its first six months. James Stewart, Chair of the Allard Prize Board, noted that the award highlights the global nature of corruption and the courage of those who challenge it. "As we honour these brave individuals, we must also recognise that corruption is a global crisis that transcends borders," added Stewart. Mumin explained that the award encourages Somali journalists to continue their work despite threats. "This is a recognition of our collective work. It shows that journalism still has the power to challenge kleptocracy, injustice and fear," noted Mumin. SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim observed that the recognition motivates the team to continue working under pressure. "This recognition is a beacon of hope. Despite the arrests, threats and exile, the global community sees and values our work. That gives us the courage to keep moving forward," added Ibrahim. The Allard Prize, established in 2012 by the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia, is awarded every two years to individuals or organisations demonstrating leadership in advancing transparency and accountability.

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Somali journalist wins global award as crackdown on media intensifies

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