Abdalle Ahmed Mumin Honored at the 2025 Allard Prize for International Integrity

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) beams with pride as it extends heartfelt congratulations to its Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin. His honorable mention at the 2025 Allard Prize for International Integrity—involving both a notable acknowledgment and a financial award—is nothing short of a triumphant global acclaim.

The atmosphere at the awards ceremony in New York was electrifying. Influential figures and visionaries gathered under one roof, united by their dedication to integrity, human rights, and the relentless battle against corruption.

The evening kicked off with a stirring keynote speech by Sarah Chayes, a celebrated journalist and former advisor to the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff. Known for her deep insights into corruption, Chayes reminded the audience: “Supporting anti-corruption efforts is not just noble—it’s essential for global justice.”

The Allard Prize for International Integrity stands tall as one of the globe’s most esteemed accolades, highlighting those who bravely confront corruption and tenaciously pursue justice. Initiated by Canadian human rights advocate Peter A. Allard in 2012, it consistently amplifies voices of courage worldwide.

SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim expressed profound joy: “We at the Somali Journalists Syndicate are elated beyond words. Abdalle has consistently demonstrated unparalleled bravery, risking his life for the truth and holding power to account. His commitment to press freedom and human rights resonates deeply within us all. Indeed, Abdalle deserves this global recognition.”

Interestingly, this isn’t Abdalle’s first brush with international acclaim. Back in 2013, he was celebrated for his exceptional human rights photojournalism in Somalia. This recent accolade further attests to his unwavering courage and visionary leadership.

Mr. Ibrahim further observed:

“This recognition rejuvenates our spirits here at SJS. Despite the obstacles—harassment, arrests, threats, and even exile—we remain seen. The global community acknowledges our struggles, and this solidarity propels us forward.”

“For journalists laboring under threats, censorship, and intimidation, this award screams louder than mere accolades. It echoes the belief that journalism is indispensable. It’s a beacon of hope, insisting that our resilience isn’t in vain. Every reporter daring to pose tough questions stands vindicated.”

Abdullahi Hassan from Amnesty International hailed the efforts of Abdalle and SJS, underscoring their monumental work in defending press freedom within Somalia. “Abdalle’s persecution underscores the price of this noble fight,” he noted. Similarly, Muthoki Mumo from the Committee to Protect Journalists praised Abdalle as an embodiment of press freedom advocacy. Her poignant remembrance of over 80 journalists killed in Somalia since 1992 served as a stark backdrop to their incredible mission.

Connecting via video for his acceptance speech, Abdalle Mumin poignantly shared:

“For over two decades, my commitment has been unwavering: journalism must shed light on corruption, demand accountability, and defend the voiceless. In Somalia, this belief is consistently tested, sometimes life-threatening. Receiving the Allard Prize tonight isn’t merely an affirmation of my efforts; it acknowledges the sheer power of journalism against the unyielding forces of kleptocracy and injustice.”

SJS extends its profound gratitude to the Allard Prize organization, its dedicated team, and the Prize Committee for their unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and defense of human rights advocates globally.

Edited By Ali Musa, Axadle Times International–Monitoring