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MOGADISHU

U.N. agencies, the Somali government and the Somali journalists' union are working to address the problem of censorship and the threat of violence against journalists in Somalia.

This year, at least three journalists have been killed in Somalia and three more badly wounded.

Abdirizak Ilmi, a local TV journalist, was the latest victim. Unknown gunmen shot him at close range outside his Mogadishu home. He survived, but suffered severe wounds.

Mustafa Duhulow, Somalia's Minister of Information, said now is the time to address the safety of journalists.

As you are all aware Somalia is moving forward to become a peaceful nation. Therefore this is the best time to address all the challenges such as impunity, safety of journalists and understanding the need to develop Somali media, as each countrys development depends on how free its media are," said Duhulow.

Journalists in Somalia have been meeting with key partners to discuss their security concerns.

At one meeting, representatives from the United Nations, the Somali government and the Somali journalists' union jointly expressed their concern over attacks on the media.

The U.N.'s Cassandra Nelson pointed out that Somalia is among the top ten deadliest countries for journalists in the world.

And despite significant progress that has been made in Somalia, assassinations, imprisonment, harassment still continue and often without impunity, and that's what we are here to talk about together as a group," said Nelson.

Continued here:
Safety of Journalists a Major Concern in Somalia