Forum Calls for ‘Solutions Journalism’ to Address Societal Challenges

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Journalists in Somalia should strive to provide solutions to challenges facing the country through proactive reporting and holding those in authority accountable.

This came up during an X Spaces forum Sunday evening where senior journalists shared experiences on the concept of ‘Solutions Journalism.’

Speaking at the forum, veteran VOA journalist Harun Maruf said there was a need for a shift from basic reporting to in-depth and inquisitive reportorial enterprises which seek answers to consequences issues while challenging those who seek to control the flow of information.

“This shift challenges the core of news reporting. Journalists must navigate a world where instant, unverified information competes with their carefully researched stories,” Maruf said. “Their access to sources is increasingly limited by media officers who control institutional messaging.”

Maruf noted that the media environment in Somalia remained challenging for journalists not only in terms of access to information and security but also in light of the widening opportunities occasioned by access to the internet.

“In this evolving ecosystem, Somali journalists aren’t just reporting—they’re fighting to stay relevant. Their new mission: to provide context, maintain integrity, and offer vital scrutiny in a sea of unchecked information, all while facing ongoing increasing challenges,” the long-serving journalist added.  

Discussants further noted that the ever-evolving media landscape called for journalists to be more vigilant and proactive to guard fidelity to truth accuracy given competing interests from citizen journalists and official spokespersons.

The forum called for the adoption of ‘Solutions Journalisms’ anchored on four pillars. The first is response which aims at seeking answers to social problems. Secondly is insights which focus on extracting relevant accessible lessons. Thirdly, this concept builds on evidence which aims at data showing effectiveness, being transparent about findings. Finally, ‘Solutions Journalism’ is anchored on covering shortcomings and contextualizing responses.