MOGADISHU, Somalia — On the occasion of the International Day for Universal Access to Information, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre of Somalia has reaffirmed his government’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and public engagement.
This year’s theme, “Mainstreaming Access to Information and Participation in the Public Sector,” underscores the importance of empowering citizens through accessible information, a principle deeply embedded in Prime Minister Barre’s governance philosophy.
In a speech marking the day, PM Barre emphasized, “By embedding access to information within public sector operations, we empower our citizens to contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.” His message resonates with the global call for governments to ensure that information is not only accessible but also actively utilized by the public to foster democratic processes.
The Prime Minister’s commitment to transparency comes at a crucial time for Somalia, a nation rebuilding after decades of conflict. Access to information is seen as a tool for promoting social equity, strengthening governance, and ensuring that the voices of all Somalis are heard in the decision-making processes.
Barre’s background in education and public administration, coupled with his role as a parliamentarian before becoming Prime Minister, positions him uniquely to champion these reforms. His tenure has seen initiatives aimed at increasing governmental transparency, including more open dialogues with civil society and enhanced communication strategies to reach rural populations.
Internationally, Somalia’s stance on information access was highlighted during PM Barre’s meeting with the UN Secretary-General, where discussions included Somalia’s progress on governance and security, further emphasizing the global community’s recognition of these efforts.
The International Day for Universal Access to Information not only serves as a reminder of the rights enshrined in international law but also as a call to action for governments like Somalia to ensure these rights are realized. PM Barre’s pledge is a step towards not just meeting international standards but also in nurturing a more informed, engaged, and empowered Somali citizenry.
As Somalia continues its journey towards recovery and development, the commitment to transparency by PM Hamza Abdi Barre on this significant day could mark a turning point, promising a governance model where information is power, shared equally among all citizens for the betterment of the nation.
