MOGADISHU — The Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and Officer-in-Charge of AUSSOM, Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie, joined Somalia’s Defence Minister, Ahmed Fiqi, on Saturday for the launch of the Journalists for Peace Programme in Mogadishu.
The programme, running from 22 to 26 August 2026, is organised as part of the ongoing efforts of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) to counter violent extremism and promote responsible media coverage focused on peace.
The initiative seeks to strengthen the skills of Somali journalists and enhance their ability to report on conflict, peace and security issues while avoiding narratives that could contribute to violent extremism.
Organisers said the programme also aims to support Somali media in countering extremist narratives and promoting accurate, responsible and peace-oriented reporting.
The participation of senior Somali and AUSSOM officials highlights the importance placed on the role of the media in supporting peacebuilding and efforts to counter violent extremism in Somalia.
