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The Somali girls stepping into the boxing ring – and challenging tradition. MOGADISHU, Somalia
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. For the first time, girls in the capital are taking part […] The post The Somali girls stepping into the boxing ring – and challenging tradition. MOGAD
In Mogadishu, a group of Somali girls, including 19-year-old Saxar Aadan, are training in boxing for self-defence and confidence, despite facing societal challenges.
What was announced
- Girls in Mogadishu are participating in structured boxing training for the first time, aiming to develop self-defence skills and confidence.
- Saxar Aadan, one of the participants, expressed that boxing has made her feel stronger and more focused.
- Some girls, like Fatima Mohamed, have had to stop training due to family objections, highlighting the cultural challenges they face.
Context
The article highlights the growing interest among Somali girls in boxing, a sport traditionally viewed as unsuitable for women, amidst societal pressures.
““When I told my family I wanted to learn boxing, they were surprised. But they allowed me. Now I feel stronger and more confident.””
Why this matters: This story sheds light on the evolving role of women in Somali society and the challenges they face in pursuing sports.
Original English report
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Original source text
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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.
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.
Source noteWhy this story appears
This report is shown because it came from Warkasta’s monitored source network and matches the current section, recency, and coverage labels.
Why this story appears
This report is shown because it came from Warkasta’s monitored source network and matches the current section, recency, and coverage labels.
- Source count
- 1
- Sources used
- Radio Dalsan
- Language mix
- English
- Translation status
- Shown in its original language
- AI synthesis
- No AI synthesis is used for this story panel
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