By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU – Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has paid an unannounced visit to the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) headquarters in Mogadishu, following public outrage over a viral social media video showing female staff allegedly sleeping outside the office at night.
The video, which spread rapidly across Somali social media platforms, appeared to show several young women — reportedly NIRA employees — spending the night in the open due to heavy workloads and long shifts. The footage triggered widespread criticism and concern over working conditions and the safety of female employees.
Responding swiftly to the incident, Prime Minister Barre described the situation as “unacceptable and inhumane.” He emphasized that no woman should be forced to stay overnight or sleep outside their workplace under unsafe conditions.
“The video we saw on social media is not something we can tolerate,” the Prime Minister said.
“Female employees should not be compelled to come or stay overnight at the workplace. It puts their safety at risk and undermines their dignity. Working schedules must be reviewed to reduce unnecessary pressure.”
During his visit to the NIRA headquarters, Mr. Barre met with senior management and staff members. He instructed officials to immediately address the issue and ensure that proper facilities and fair working arrangements are implemented.
He also stressed that the government bears full responsibility for safeguarding the dignity and welfare of its citizens, especially women in the workplace.
“The government will not tolerate mistreatment or discrimination against female workers,” he said, calling for urgent reforms to improve working environments across all public institutions.
The Prime Minister’s prompt response has been widely praised on Somali social media, with many describing him as a leader who listens to his people and takes swift action to address public concerns.
Commentators and civil society groups have also urged government agencies to strengthen oversight and ensure that all public employees — particularly women — are treated with respect and fairness.
