The award was announced on Tuesday night at a ceremony held in New York, USA, celebrating individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership, courage, and commitment to transparency, human rights, and the fight against corruption.

The award event was opened with a keynote speech by Sarah Chayes — an award-winning journalist, author, and former advisor to the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff — renowned for her expertise on corruption. In her address, she emphasized the importance of supporting anti-corruption efforts worldwide.

The Allard Prize for International Integrity is one of the world’s most significant honours dedicated to combating corruption and promoting human rights. Established in 2012 by Canadian human rights lawyer Peter A. Allard, the award continues to uplift and spotlight those who risk their lives in the fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice.

SJS President Mohamed Ibrahim stated:

“The entire Somali Journalists Syndicate team and the broader human rights movement in Somalia proudly congratulate our Secretary General, Abdalle Ahmed Mumin, for this well-deserved international recognition. Abdalle is not only a journalist who has repeatedly risked his life to speak the truth and hold the corrupt powerful accountable, but he is also a leader who has shown unwavering commitment to press freedom and human rights in Somalia. He truly deserves this award.”

This becomes Abdalle’s second major international recognition. In 2013, he was honoured for his outstanding human rights photojournalism work in Somalia. The 2025 Allard Prize is a testament to his continued courage and leadership.

Mr. Ibrahim further added:

“This recognition inspires all of us at SJS. It demonstrates that, despite the grave challenges Abdalle and our organization have faced — from harassment and arrests to threats and exile — we are not alone. The global community sees and values our work. That gives us the strength to go the extra mile.”

“For us at SJS, and for journalists across Somalia and around the world who are working under threats, intimidation, and censorship, this award is more than a recognition — it is a powerful message. It affirms that journalism matters. It reinforces our belief that fighting corruption, exposing abuse of power, and standing for human rights is not in vain. It gives visibility, hope, and encouragement to every reporter who dares to ask hard questions.”

Abdullahi Hassan of Amnesty International stated that “Abdalle Mumin and the Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) have done extraordinary work in defending press freedom and advancing human rights in Somalia. Abdalle, in particular, has been severely persecuted for this.”

Muthoki Mumo of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), in a video interview, also emphasized the importance of press freedom and the safety of journalists. She described the work of Abdalle and SJS as that of “an active press freedom advocate.” Muthoki also noted that CPJ has documented the killing of over 80 journalists in Somalia since 1992 — a stark reminder of the grave risks journalists continue to face.

In his acceptance speech, delivered via video link, Abdalle Mumin said:

“For over twenty years, I have put my life on the line for one belief: that journalism can expose corruption, demand accountability, and protect the rights of the voiceless. In Somalia, that belief isn’t just tested — it’s life-threatening. Tonight, I am deeply humbled to receive the Allard Prize award. It is not only a recognition of my work with the Somali Journalists Syndicate, but of the power of journalism to challenge kleptocracy, injustice, and fear.”

SJS extends its sincere thanks to the Allard Prize team, the organisers, staff, and Prize Committee for their tireless work in supporting integrity, transparency, and the protection of human rights defenders across the world.

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