A Somali journalist narrowly survived an attempted assassination today in Mogadishu, raising renewed concerns about the safety of media workers in the country.
Rowda Abdi Hassan, a media worker affiliated with SBC TV, was attacked by armed assailants in the capital. According to initial reports, the attackers are believed to be linked to the militant group Al-Shabaab, who later claimed responsibility for the incident.
The journalist sustained injuries during the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in Mogadishu. Details about her condition remain limited, but sources indicate she is under care and being monitored by medical professionals.
This is not the first time Rowda has faced danger. In 2016, she reportedly endured serious threats and intimidation from Al-Shabaab, which caused significant psychological distress and fear for her safety.
Over the years, she has publicly expressed concerns about her security, citing repeated harassment, threats, and attempts to silence her work. Today’s incident marks yet another escalation in the risks she faces as a journalist.
The attack highlights the continued dangers confronting journalists in Somalia, where media workers are frequently targeted by extremist groups. Acts of intimidation, violence, and assassination attempts remain a persistent threat to press freedom in the region.
Authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the attack, and investigations are expected to follow.
SBC News DeskÂ