Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-In a significant step towards promoting informed public discourse on governance and public administration, Dawan Media Group (DMG) and Somali Public Agenda (SPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) this week. The agreement aimed to strengthen collaboration between the two organizations, leveraging SPA’s research expertise and DMG’s extensive media outreach.

Key Objectives and Areas of Collaboration

The MoU outlines several priority areas, including:

• Research and Publications: Co-dissemination of policy briefs, reports, and recommendations on governance and public service issues.
• Capacity Building: Organizing workshops and seminars for journalists, researchers, and civil society actors.
• Public Dialogue: Hosting forums and panel discussions to engage citizens in critical conversations about governance.
• Media Advocacy: Utilizing DMG’s platforms to amplify SPA’s findings and foster informed decision-making.
• Knowledge Sharing: Collaborating on data and research to enhance contributions to public discourse.

Roles and Commitments

Under the agreement, SPA will focus on conducting high-quality research and providing technical expertise, while DMG will disseminate SPA’s findings, provide media coverage for joint initiatives, and ensure balanced reporting.

The MoU is non-binding, effective for five years, and subject to review after six months to assess the progress and effectiveness of the collaboration.

Leaders’ Statements

Representatives from both organizations expressed optimism about the partnership. “This collaboration will bridge research and media, fostering a well-informed Somali populace,” said Mahad Wasuge, Executive Director of Somali Public Agenda. Alinur Salad, Executive Director of Dawan Media Group, emphasized the importance of media in engaging citizens and advancing governance awareness.

This partnership marks a critical milestone in fostering public understanding and encouraging civic engagement in Somalia’s governance landscape.