Somali Media Veteran and Ex — SONNA Director Said Mahmud Ahmed Passes Away. Mogadishu, Somalia — 2026-02-27 Lead Paragraph The Federal Republic of Somalia’s Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism has announced the passing of Said Mahmud Ahmed, affectionately known as ‘Said Sonna,’a foundational figure in Somali journalism and a former Director of the Somali National News Agency (SONNA).
The Ministry has conveyed its profound sympathies to the deceased’s family, colleagues, and the Somali public, celebrating his decades of public service and contribution to the nation’s media landscape.
Body. Said Mahmud Ahmed’s career spanned over four decades, during which he was instrumental in establishing the initial media architecture of the Somali state.
As a founding staff member of SONNA, Ahmed played a pivotal role in shaping the agency’s structure and capacity to deliver essential news to the public.
His tenure as Director was marked by significant reforms and institutional development, ensuring the agency’s effectiveness in serving the Somali populace. Ahmed was highly respected for his rigorous analysis of national security matters, particularly in his unwavering stance against extremist factions.
His work consistently prioritized the public interest, advocating for national unity and the stabilization of the country.
His dedication has left an indelible mark on the domestic media landscape.
The Ministry’s official message of mourning was jointly released by the Minister of Information, H. E.
Daud Aweis Jama, Deputy Minister H.
E. Abdirahman Yusuf Omar Al-Adala, Director General Abdullahi Hayir Duale, and the entire administrative staff.
They extended their profound sympathies to Ahmed’s family, relatives, and the broader Somali public.
Ending. Further details regarding Ahmed’s funeral arrangements and tributes are expected to be announced by the Ministry of Information.
The Somali public is encouraged to honor Ahmed’s legacy through acts of unity and support for the continued development of the nation’s media sector.
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Source: sonna.
