Somalia launches offensive to curb cases of misinformation and incitement to violence
Somalia leaders led by Information Minister Daudi Aweis and his Deputy Abdirahman Sheikh Yusuf Al-Adala during a forum on misinformation and incitement in Mogadishu.
Somalia has launched an offensive aimed at curbing the increasing cases of misinformation and incitement to violence.
This was confirmed by the country’s Minister of Information Daudi Aweis during a two-day forum in Mogadishu which ended on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.
The forum brought together experts, policymakers, and community leaders who convened to strategise solutions and address the threats these challenges pose to the country’s peace and stability.
Further, the conference shed light on the danger of misleading information on social unity.
Participants stressed the need for the government to take strong steps to combat inaccurate claims and prevent them from sparking unrest.
Mr Aweis underscored the forum's value, urging solidarity against fabricated news to safeguard the nation's prosperity.
“Together, we can overcome this dangerous menace that threatens to tear us apart. Together, we can build a society founded on trust, respect, and understanding. Let us stand united against fake news and misinformation, for the sake of our country and the well-being of our people,” he said.
Deputy Information Minister, Abdirahman Sheikh Yusuf Al-Adala, emphasised the importance of accurate information for informed decision-making. He pointed out that international consensus recognizes information as a key factor influencing public choices. In line with this, Al-Adala stressed Somalia's commitment to ensuring the authenticity of information delivered to its citizens.
"The whole world agrees that the most important thing that influences a person's decision is the information they have. This information shapes how we view others, forming our opinions and even dictating our feelings of like or dislike. This issue of information access and accuracy is crucial because it directly impacts the decision-making of our society as a whole," Al-Adala said.
The forum's insights will guide a strategic plan to combat misinformation and violence. This cooperative effort will strengthen national unity and safeguard the country's well-being.
This initiative represents a major leap forward in bolstering the nation's defence against the threats posed by misinformation.
Somalia convened this crucial forum as social media's role in fuelling societal friction intensifies. The government has recently clamped down on social media personalities accused of fanning the flames of public unrest by spreading clan-based attacks online.
On May 21, 2024, the Banadir Regional Police apprehended 21 influencers for spewing online insults that exploit clan divisions. These arrests, prompted by concerns over 'disturbances and dissension,' have stoked tensions and exposed the financial incentives behind such content. Influencers themselves have acknowledged exploiting clan affiliations to generate revenue, thereby widening societal rifts.
Somalia's police force also extended their crackdown on Saturday, apprehending over 40 individuals in Mogadishu for acts deemed indecent and violations of public order.
