Somaliland Proposal for Enhanced Public Access and Oversight in Government Ministries
Background:

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On the morning of Jan.9. 2025, I visited six government ministry offices between 8 AM and 11 AM. Access was strictly limited to individuals with prior appointments at each ministry, making it impossible to meet with ministers or director-generals without scheduling in advance. This access restriction appeared to be a standard practice across all the offices I visited, raising concerns about transparency and public engagement.
All ministries are adhering to their designated office hours, which include specific arrival and departure times. The officers have shown a commitment to respecting these working hours. We plan to monitor and assess the sustainability of these practices over the coming 100 days to ensure that they continue to be upheld effectively and efficiently. This evaluation will help us identify any necessary improvements or adjustments to maintain a productive work environment.
Challenges Observed:
The current appointment-only policy restricts spontaneous public interactions with government officials, potentially alienating citizens and reducing trust in government institutions.
Restricted access could lead to perceptions of opacity and unresponsiveness within the administration.
The lack of open access diminishes opportunities for citizens to express concerns, seek assistance, or provide feedback directly.
Recommendations:
Designated Walk-In Days:
Each ministry should allocate at least two specific days each week as walk-in days, where citizens can visit without prior appointments. These days should be publicized through official channels, including websites, social media, and public service announcements.
This approach would promote greater transparency, allow direct public engagement, and foster a more inclusive government-citizen relationship.
Ministries might face increased foot traffic, requiring additional staff to manage and guide visitors. Security measures should also be adapted to handle higher visitor numbers without compromising safety.
Regular Oversight by Senior Officials:
Senior officials, including ministers and director-generals, should conduct weekly or bi-weekly unannounced visits to ensure compliance with public service standards, staff accountability, and operational efficiency.
Regular oversight would reinforce accountability, boost employee performance, and ensure that ministries remain aligned with public service goals.
Senior officials need to balance their schedules to accommodate these oversight visits, which may require delegating some responsibilities or adjusting their workload.
Enhanced Public Engagement Strategies:
Ministries could organize periodic town hall meetings where citizens can voice concerns and receive updates on government initiatives.
Establish clear feedback channels, such as suggestion boxes, online forms, and dedicated hotlines, to collect and respond to public input.
Deploy mobile offices or community outreach programs to reach citizens in remote areas and ensure wider access to government services.
Conclusion:
Implementing these recommendations will enhance public trust, improve government responsiveness, and create a more transparent administrative system. It aligns with democratic principles of openness and accountability, ensuring that government offices serve the people effectively and inclusively.

The information contained in the article posted represents the views and opinions of the author and does not necessarily represent the views or opinions commentators. the article a opininian of the author don’t necessarily reflect the Editorial policy of Araweelo News Network.

Sincerely,
ENG.ABDI ALI BARKHAD

Independent Political Analyst
As a proud Somali Ethiopian born in Dire Dawa, I have gained valuable experiences that shape my perspective and ambitions. My educational journey in this vibrant country (Ethiopia) has equipped me with knowledge and skills that drive me toward a brighter future.