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Showing posts from December, 2023

Uphill Battles: The Challenges Faced by Somali Female Journalists

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  Female journalists in Somaliland and Somalia grapple with multifaceted barriers within societal norms and media institutions, hindering their professional growth. They face gender biases, limited roles, and insufficient support, impeding their recognition and opportunities in journalism. These challenges highlight the urgent need for equitable support, resources, and recognition, emphasizing the necessity for inclusive efforts to empower female journalists and break down systemic barriers in the field.

Clan Rivalry and the Hijacking of Somaliland's Democracy: A Crossroads for the Nation's Future

  Clan rivalry in Somaliland has become a critical issue, undermining not only its democratic institutions but also the societal fabric that holds the country together. While democracy should offer a platform for merit-based leadership and accountability, clan politics have hijacked this process, reducing political engagement to a mere tribal contest. One of the most troubling aspects of clan politics is its influence over Somaliland’s educated youth and intellectuals. In theory, the youth—especially university students and lecturers—should be at the forefront of advocating for progressive policies, holding political leaders accountable, and guiding society toward development. Unfortunately, the reality is quite the opposite. Clan elders, who traditionally wield significant social and political power, continue to dominate the political landscape by rallying the youth under the banner of clan loyalty. Instead of raising critical thinking and promoting national interests, these eld...

The Threat to Data Privacy in Somaliland: Telecommunication Companies and Electronic Banking Exposed

Introduction: The collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991 left a vacuum in the country’s economic and political infrastructure, leading to a period of uncertainty. Despite this instability, Somaliland managed to rebuild key sectors, including telecommunications and banking. In the absence of a centralized government, the private sector stepped in to fill the void, with the first telecommunication companies emerging in the early and mid-1990s. These companies introduced a new era of connectivity, transforming Somaliland into a hub of technological growth and economic opportunity. By the mid-1990s, private telecommunication companies began offering basic services, catering to the increasing demand for reliable communication in the region. Over time, these companies grew exponentially, with the introduction of mobile banking services like Zaad and E-Dahab further revolutionizing daily life. The adoption of these platforms brought an unprecedented level of convenience to Somalila...

UN Resolution's Ripple Effect on Somalia's Weapons Embargo Lift and Private Security Firms

  This article is a testament to the complexities and challenges that arise when engaging private security companies in conflict zones, urging stakeholders to tread cautiously and prioritize the protection of human rights and stability above all else.

Empowerment Beyond Neglect: Urgent Reforms for the Rights of People with Disabilities in Somalia

  Today, on this International Day of People with Disabilities, let us unite in demanding action from Somalia's authorities and stakeholders. It's time to move beyond rhetoric and take tangible steps towards creating a more equitable, inclusive society—one where the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of ability, are upheld and protected