Somaliland National Television (SLNTV) is the state-run television broadcaster of Somaliland, a self-declared republic that operates independently but remains internationally recognized as part of Somalia. Launched in 2005, SLNTV is headquartered in Hargeisa, the capital and largest city of the territory. Its programming is predominantly focused on domestic news, cultural affairs, and political developments within Somaliland.
Media assets
Television: SLNTV
State Media Matrix Typology
Ownership and governance
SLNTV was established by ministerial decree and falls under the direct jurisdiction of the Ministry of Information and National Guidance. The station’s top leadership is appointed personally by the Minister, and the channel operates as a fully integrated department within the Ministry. This tight administrative structure leaves little room for operational autonomy or independent governance.
Source of funding and budget
While no official budget documents detailing SLNTV’s finances are publicly available, both local media professionals and international experts interviewed for this project confirm that the broadcaster is entirely state-funded.
Editorial independence
SLNTV’s editorial line is closely aligned with the political agenda of the Somaliland government. Local journalists and media analysts routinely characterize it as a propaganda tool, primarily used to reinforce the ruling party’s messaging and suppress dissenting narratives. The channel’s coverage tends to emphasize governmental achievements and downplay criticism or opposition activity.
As of mid-2025, there is no domestic legal framework or independent oversight mechanism in Somaliland to guarantee SLNTV’s editorial independence. In the absence of statutory safeguards or public accountability measures, the broadcaster continues to operate as a de facto communications arm of the executive.
June 2025