Farhan Jimale
Commissioner, Somalia's Independent Human Rights Commission
Accomplished communication strategist and journalist with over 30 years of global media experience, dedicated to promoting justice and accountability by amplifying marginalized voices through powerful storytelling and rights-based public advocacy.
Featured Statement
Building Trust Through Transparency
In my role as Commissioner, I am committed to fostering an environment where human rights are not just protected on paper, but lived experiences for every Somali. Through open dialogue, accountability, and unwavering dedication to justice, we can create lasting change.
Key Focus Areas
Our work centers on four critical pillars that form the foundation of human rights protection in Somalia.
Access to Justice
Ensuring equal access to fair and effective legal remedies for all citizens through strengthened judicial institutions, legal aid programs, and advocacy for rule of law principles that protect fundamental human rights.
Women & Children Protection
Safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and children through comprehensive protection programs, advocacy against gender-based violence, and ensuring equal access to justice and essential services.
Freedom of Expression
Defending press freedom, media independence, and the right to free speech through advocacy for journalist safety, combating censorship, and promoting open dialogue that strengthens democratic participation.
Accountability
Promoting transparency and good governance through systematic monitoring of human rights violations, institutional oversight, and advocacy for mechanisms that ensure public officials are held responsible.
Commissioner's Note
Human rights are not a privilege to be granted, but a fundamental truth to be protected. Through transparency, accountability, and unwavering commitment to justice, we can build a Somalia where every voice is heard and every person's dignity is respected.
Commissioner, Somalia's Independent Human Rights Commission
UNHCR Annual Results Report 2024 - Somalia
Comprehensive assessment of UNHCR's protection and assistance efforts for forcibly displaced persons, refugees, asylum-seekers, and returnees in Somalia during 2024.
Annual Results Report
Somalia
UNHCR / May 27, 2025
BBC Focus on Africa Interview
Komla Dumor of BBC's Focus on Africa interviews Farhan Jimale on the forced eviction of thousands of internally displaced people in Mogadishu.
For over 30 years, Farhan has fearlessly used journalism to expose injustice, defend the rights of the marginalised, and amplify the voices of the voiceless.
This interview reflects his lifelong commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of every Somali — especially those forgotten and forced to the margins.
Community Endorsements
Voices from across Somalia's civil society, academia, and human rights community.
Farhan's three decades of journalism have prepared him well for this role. He brings both credibility and a deep understanding of Somalia's human rights challenges.
Khadija Mohamed
Civil Society Leader
Peace & Justice Coalition
Commissioner Jimale's commitment to amplifying marginalized voices through his journalism background brings a unique and powerful perspective to human rights advocacy in Somalia.
Dr. Amina Hassan
Director, Horn of Africa Human Rights Institute
HAHRI
Having worked alongside Farhan for years, I've witnessed his unwavering dedication to press freedom and transparency. His appointment to the Commission is a victory for all who believe in accountability.
Mohamed Ali Sheikh
Executive Director
Somali Journalists Association
Get in Touch
Have questions about human rights issues or want to report a concern? We're here to listen and help.