Empowering Somali Women in Sports: A Journey Amidst Challenges

In Somalia, the presence of women in sports is anything but ordinary. It is a journey marked by societal pressure, threats from extremists, and severe underfunding. How does one find the courage to pursue a passion in such a challenging environment?

Many gifted women have had to flee the country or abandon their dreams altogether, given the dangers they face. The story of Samia Yusuf Omar is a poignant reminder of these challenges. A beacon of talent, she competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Yet, due to threats from militant groups like Al-Shabaab, Samia sought refuge and opportunity elsewhere. Tragically, in April 2012, she perished in the Mediterranean Sea, attempting to reach Europe for a safer future.

Her narrative is more than a tale of loss; it is a stark example of the lengths to which Somali athletes must go to chase their dreams. After Beijing, Samia relocated to Ethiopia in pursuit of training for the 2012 London Olympics. Her journey took her through Sudan to Libya, where she hoped to reach Europe. But destiny had different plans.

Yet, amidst these tales of adversity, a new generation of young women is emerging, undeterred by the challenges they face.

The Rise of Somali Women’s Handball

In the bustling city of Mogadishu, the Somali women’s handball team is hard at work. They are preparing to represent their nation at the Africa Zone 5 women’s youth tournaments in Uganda, come May 2025. This team is not just about sports; it’s a symbol of resilience and hope.

Fowsiya Nur Hassan Ali, at just 17, stands as a testament to this spirit. Playing as number 5, her journey has been one of determination amidst cultural challenges. Growing up in a patriarchal society, Fowsiya found strength in her mother’s encouragement. “I joined this team in 2022 after my mother encouraged me,” she recalls, her voice echoing with pride as her teammates conclude another day of training under the beating sun of Boondheere district.

Despite the dominance of male athletes who often commandeer training fields, Fowsiya remains undeterred. Her love for sports was sparked early, with YouTube NBA games being her frequent companions. “Some people don’t like me playing and don’t want to see me succeed,” she admits, illustrating the dual reality of support and opposition.

“To my critics,” Fowsiya smiles wryly, “I say, ‘Come and see us in the stadium. Even if you won’t play, just watch.’”

Support Beyond Boundaries

Mohamed Hurshe Hassan ‘Enow’, President of the Somali Handball Federation, contemplates the rocky yet rewarding journey of Somali handball. His eyes shine with memories of past struggles and victories. Since 1991, we’ve been building teams, men and women, to compete nationally, he explains. During Somalia’s civil war, sports began as a bridge over the “Green Line” dividing Mogadishu, uniting a fractured city.

These young women confront cultural barriers and financial strife. They train with just one set of athletic wear and shoes, highlighting the profound lack of resources. “One pair of trainers costs $35, and even that feels unreachable sometimes,” notes Hurshe.

The team’s coach, Fadumo Ali Abdirahman, acknowledges the struggles, yet remains remarkably hopeful. “From Serie B to Serie A, we’ve seen this team grow. Resources are limited, yet our ambitions grow.” In 2018, when Somalia’s under-18 team faced a harsh defeat in Uganda, they returned stronger. “Despite our limitations, we aim for victory, Insha’Allah.”

Young Stars with Big Dreams

For 17-year-old Nasteho Mohamud Khamiis, playing for Somalia at the national level is a deeply held dream. The road has been long, with training often extending into the holy month of Ramadan. “We kept training at night, even during Ramadan,” she shares. Her message to skeptics is one of openness and optimism: “See it for yourself.”

Encouragingly, support for women’s sports is budding. Men, like Hassan Yusuf Abdullahi from Boondheere, stand enthusiastically behind the team. “I come to every match. I support these girls with passion and pride,” he asserts.

Coach Fadumo continues to rally for public support. “Our fans are our strength. Join us, cheer us, and watch us make history,” she appeals.

Despite constant threats, especially from groups like Al-Shabaab, the players’ spirits are unyielding. Their silence on these threats, enforced by management for security reasons, speaks volumes of their dedication.

A Future Full of Hope

Young player Hodan Mohamud Abdullahi speaks for many when she says, “Women can achieve anything. It’s all in the mind.” Belief in oneself is transformative. If a goal is set with conviction, success, she believes, follows.

Nasteho captures the essence of their journey, reminding everyone, “Every one of us aims to hoist our Somali flag high. To bring home the trophy — that’s our dream.” Her vision is clear: to don the Somali jersey on international stages and return victorious.

As these inspiring stories gather momentum, remember the resilience, hope, and dreams of Somali women who are rewriting their narrative in sports, paving paths for future generations.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring