Founded in 2005, it broadcasts from the country's capital of Hargeisa via terrestrial transmission, as well as to other parts of Africa and the Middle East, and Europe and Asia through satellite.

The channel focuses on general Somali news, particularly items on the regional authorities.

[2] SLNTV started broadcasting in 2005, ahead of the parliamentary election held on 29 September.

[3] During its first year and a half on air, SLNTV lacked "effective" programs and failed to compete against the private channels.

[2] Over time, SLNTV started airing weekly programs primarily aimed at raising awareness of issues as well as announcements and achievements from the government.