MOGADISHU, Somalia 30 August 2026 – Independent media houses and journalists in Somalia are facing an escalating wave of online attacks and censorship, including coordinated fake copyright claims, content takedowns and demands for payment, often from individuals apparently operating inside and outside Somalia, according to an investigation by the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS).
Journalists, editors and media managers told SJS that the attacks intensified early this year amid opposition protests in Mogadishu and escalating tensions between the Federal Government and Southwest State, as well as the continuing political rift with Puntland.
The attacks are contributing to a shrinking space for independent reporting across the country. With Facebook serving as the primary news and communication platform for most Somali journalists and the general public, the copyright strikes, removals and account restrictions have significantly limited journalists’ ability to report and reach audiences.
On 28 February 2026, Sahal Cable TV, a Puntland-based local television station, was covering a local event involving a school graduation and food distribution. Shortly after the station posted videos of the event on its Facebook page, Facebook removed the content following a copyright claim that the station said was false.
Then a video clip featuring a speech by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, was subsequently removed following another copyright claim.
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