The leadership of the Somaliland Journalists Association (SOLJA) today held its quarterly board meeting at Maansoor Hotel in Berbera. The meeting, chaired by SOLJA Chairman Shaafici Mohamed Ibrahim, focused on key matters related to strengthening the organization and improving the overall media environment in Somaliland.

During the session, the board reviewed the organization’s activities and achievements from the previous quarter and approved the action plan for the upcoming period. The discussions focused on strengthening transparency, effectiveness, and institutional performance in implementing SOLJA’s office activities and priorities.

The SOLJA leadership also called on the House of Representatives of Somaliland to expedite the passage of the Somaliland Media Law, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding freedom of expression and improving media regulation.

In addition, the board discussed the need to reform SOLJA’s electoral system to address previous challenges and shortcomings. It was agreed that broad consultations would be held with journalists, former SOLJA leaders, and regional representatives to establish a fair, transparent, and credible electoral process.

As part of the meeting, the SOLJA leadership extended congratulations to the Somaliland media community on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, reaffirming the association’s continued commitment to protecting press freedom as one of its core principles. The 2026 theme, “Shaping a Secure Future: Advancing Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security,” was also highlighted.

Furthermore, the SOLJA leadership urged the House of Representatives to lift restrictions on media access to parliament, describing such limitations as inconsistent with the principles of press freedom, transparency, and public accountability. The leadership stressed the essential role of the media in informing the public and promoting openness in democratic institutions.

SOLJA also expressed special appreciation to the Director of Somaliland Ports, Cali Diiriye, for his valuable support in facilitating the successful hosting of the quarterly board meeting in Berbera.

The meeting concluded with important resolutions and shared commitments aimed at strengthening SOLJA’s institutional development and advancing media freedom in Somaliland.