Howard Bell, Head of the UNSOM Office in Garoowe, introduced the training and reminded the assembled journalists that they have a cardinal role to play in upholding the right of freedom of expression, adding that they should be responsible professionals.

“It is the purpose of this training to help you navigate this rather important and sometimes difficult path between people’s opinions and the facts that you shine journalism on,” Bell said.

He noted the workshop was a great capacity-building opportunity for Puntland journalists who can address common misconceptions about subjects of public interest such as the Somali New Deal Compact.

Mohamud Soocadde, the Puntland Minister of Information, advised journalists to make personal safety a priority while executing their duties.

“Personal safety and security is very important and I want journalists to mind about it because life is more important than the job,” declared the minister.

On the second day of the workshop, Faisal Khalif Barre, the chairperson of the Media Association of Puntland (MAP) hailed UNSOM for supporting the professional development of journalists in Somalia.

“I believe the training was much needed and we are satisfied that the trainers have prepared documents which will be important take-aways. We are grateful to note that UNSOM and the Ministry of Information are committed to work for the professional development of journalists,” said Barre.

One of the participants, Hodan Mohamed Jamah, gave the workshop a nod of approval. “We have learned a lot from the training workshop and are equipped with knowledge on how to ensure personal safety while on the job,” she said.