In a small training hall in Mogadishu’s Waaberi district, the sharp sound of boxing gloves hitting training pads fills the air each evening as a group of Somali girls train in a sport that has long been viewed by some as unsuitable for women.
Wararka Soomaaliya
For the first time, girls in the capital are taking part in structured boxing training, seeking to develop self-defence skills, build confidence, and, for some, pursue a future in competitive sport.
“For me, boxing has made me more focused on what I am doing. My mind and body now work together. I feel more confident and energetic,” said 19-year-old Saxar Aadan, one of around ten girls aged between 18 and 20 who train at the facility.
The group trains at a facility linked to the Somali Boxing Association, where training is provided free of charge. Participants say they mainly joined to learn self-defence at a time when women can face harassment and insecurity.
Faahfaahinta
“Girls learn boxing so they can defend themselves if they face threats or attacks,” Saxar said.
She said she initially worried about how her family would react, given that women’s participation in combat sports remains uncommon in Somali society.
“When I told my family I wanted to learn boxing, they were surprised. But they allowed me. Now I feel stronger and more confident,” she said.
Saamaynta
A girl who trained in secret
Not all the girls who started training have been able to continue. Fatima Mohamed was among those interested in boxing but eventually left the programme after her family objected.
Fatima initially began training in secret because she feared that her family would not approve. She continued attending the sessions without telling them, but when her family found out, they asked her to stop.
Wararka.so waxay kuu soo tebineysaa wararka ugu dambeeyey ee Soomaaliya iyo caalamka. Si aad ula socoto wararkii ugu dambeeyey, booqo boggayaga.
