Somalia Sisterhood hosts girls’ basketball match to raise awareness on gender-based violence
Somalia Sisterhood organized a girls’ basketball match in Mogadishu’s Shibis district as part of the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, using sports to highlight challenges facing Somali girls and the need for strengthened protection and equality.
Somalia Sisterhood organized a girls’ basketball match in Shibis district in Mogadishu as part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The event used sports as a platform to highlight the challenges Somali girls face and the need for equality and protection.
Two teams, Somalia Sisterhood and Super Sign, faced off in an energetic match attended by officials from the Benadir regional administration, the Police, sports federations, and the Presidency ( Villa Somalia).
While Somalia Sisterhood won by 42 points, organizers said the event was less about competition and more about sending a strong message.
"Our goal was to give girls a platform to showcase their talent and remind the community that gender-based violence remains a serious issue that must be addressed,” said Najma Mohamed, Chairperson of Somalia Sisterhood.
The Deputy Governor of Benadir region pledged to ensure girls’ rights are protected and that equal opportunities are upheld.
“We stand with girl athletes and remain committed to preventing violations of their rights,” he said.
Basketball Federation Chairperson Abdullahi Daqaale said the Federation is working to create safe and inclusive spaces for girls in sports.
“We want Somali girls to participate confidently. The Federation is preparing an environment where their talent can grow,” he said.
Police Gender Unit representative Samira Nazarani highlighted efforts to strengthen protection systems for girls.
“Gender-based violence is a real threat. The police are developing measures to protect girls and eliminate harmful practices,” she said.
Youth and Sports advisor to the President, Hani Kuurlibah, emphasized the importance of investing in facilities and training for girls.
“Somali girls have immense potential. They deserve proper fields and resources to play a visible role in sports and society,” he said.
Youth and women’s groups from the Benadir administration and Mogadishu Municipality also called for continued empowerment initiatives.
Organizers said the match was more than a game, it was a message of resilience, equality, and the ongoing fight against gender-based violence.
Somalia Sisterhood’s initiative highlighted the need for continued advocacy against gender-based violence, reaching beyond the court to homes and communities across Somalia.
