The Somali National News Agency (SONNA) is commemorating its 62nd anniversary, marking over six decades of service since its founding in 1964. Originally established to meet the government’s information needs, the agency has evolved from the primary news source of the late 20th century to a modernized, multi-lingual platform essential to Somalia’s current national rebuilding efforts.
A Legacy of Resilience and Modernization
After facing significant operational challenges following the institutional fragmentation of the 1990s, SONNA has undergone a major revitalization led by the federal administration since 2010.
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Global Standards: Recent technological enhancements and the modernization of media assets have brought the agency in line with international standards.
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Multilingual Reach: To ensure broad accessibility, SONNA now delivers news in Somali, Arabic, and English, serving both domestic audiences and the global community.
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Strategic Role: The agency remains a cornerstone of government strategies involving security, counter-extremism, reconciliation, and civic education.
Recognition of Professional Excellence
Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Daud Aweis Jama, congratulated the agency’s leadership and staff, describing SONNA as the nation’s “authoritative news source.” He highlighted that SONNA:
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Maintains professional collaborations with over 70 global news organizations.
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Acts as the primary reference point for international outlets seeking accurate information on Somalia.
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Connects the nation with global media across digital, print, radio, and television channels.
Commitment to National Interests
SONNA Director Ismail Omar Mukhtar “Oronjo” praised the dedication of his team in providing precise and timely coverage. He specifically noted the agency’s vital reporting on:
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National Security: Ongoing activities of the Somali National Army.
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Governance: Municipal elections across Benadir and Federal Member States.
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Sovereignty & Diplomacy: Addressing international events and infringements on national sovereignty.
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Humanitarian Efforts: Documenting regional crises and relief responses.
As SONNA enters its 63rd year, it continues to serve as a bridge between the Somali government and its citizens while portraying an accurate image of the country to the world.
