Mogadishu, Somalia – 17 May 2026: The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Abdifatah Qasim Mahmoud, today conducted a working visit to the Somali National Theatre, where he held meetings with members of the National Artists, singers, actors, athletes, and the overall staff serving under the Ministry.
The Minister was welcomed by the Director of the National Council for Wisdom and Public Awareness, Mr. Osman Abdullahi (Abwaan Guure), who briefed him on the general condition of the National Theatre, the activities of the artists, and ongoing efforts aimed at promoting Somali arts and culture.
During the visit, a welcoming meeting and briefing session was held inside the National Theatre, attended by various sections of the national artists, performers, and stage athletes. They shared with the Minister the overall situation of the theatre, the existing challenges, and efforts needed to improve the work of arts and culture.
H.E Abdifatah Qasim Mahmoud particularly commended the important role played by the Somali National Artists in raising public awareness, strengthening peace, preserving Somali culture, and promoting social unity. He noted that the artists had played a significant role throughout different stages of the country’s reconstruction process.
The Minister further affirmed that the Ministry will place strong emphasis on promoting and protecting the rights of Somali artists and performers, while also prioritizing the rehabilitation and modernization of the National Theatre to restore its role as a key hub for Somali culture, arts, literature, and community entertainment.
“The National Artists form the foundation of culture and public awareness in society. The government is dedicated to safeguarding their rights and restoring the vital role that the National Theatre holds in Somali society,” the Minister stated.
He was accompanied on the visit by the Director General of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, as well as several departmental directors. The visit is part of the Ministry’s wider efforts to promote Somali culture and rehabilitate important national cultural and artistic institutions.
