Somalia ranks as one of the lowest countries for gender equality, and the harsh reality for women and girls is marked by widespread gender-based violence (GBV). Alarming rates of rape, sexual harassment, domestic abuse, child marriage, and female genital mutilation (FGM/C) continue to devastate the lives of women and girls. These abuses are not just horrific human rights violations; they have deeply detrimental effects on the mental and physical health of the survivors. In a country plagued by armed conflict, political instability, and climate crises, the impact of GBV is compounded for the most vulnerable—internally displaced persons (IDPs), 80% of whom are women and children.
Yet, amid these challenges, Hawa Feminist Coalition has been working tirelessly to create pathways for empowerment. Since 2022, the organization has been running a program titled “Sports as a Tool to Combat Gender-Based Violence that Has Become Widespread in Somalia,” which uses football as a powerful tool to combat sexual and gender-based violence, including domestic violence, rape, and sexual abuse, that has remained widespread throughout Somalia. The program, now in its third year, has reached hundreds of young girls, many of them from marginalized communities, internally displaced, or survivors of GBV.
Training and Empowerment through Football
In 2023, the program trained more than 115 girls, aged 5 to 15 in football, the majority of whom are internally displaced people, returned refugees, or members of other marginalized communities in Garowe, Somalia.
In 2024, the program trained more than 100 girls, aged 5 to 15 in football. Many of these girls, particularly those displaced or refugees, had experienced or were vulnerable to GBV. Under the guidance of a professional female coach, they not only learned tactical and technical skills but also experienced the joy of teamwork, trust-building, and camaraderie.
The training created a safe and supportive space for these young girls in a society where women’s participation in sports is often met with disdain. The activities provided more than just football lessons—they offered a lifeline. As the girls explored different roles on the field, developing their strengths, they also learned about leadership, resilience, and self-confidence. The program became a sanctuary from the harsh cultural stereotypes that tell girls they don’t belong in sports—or, for that matter, outside the rigid boundaries of traditional gender roles.







The Power of Visibility
On International Women’s Day, March 8, 2024, the program took the opportunity to spotlight the importance of gender equality in sports, reaching over 10,000 people through both in-person events and online campaigns. The significance of this event goes beyond numbers; it stands as a testament to how football, a sport typically reserved for men in Somalia, can become a powerful tool for social change.
By engaging girls in sports, Hawa Feminist Coalition is challenging the rigid gender roles that perpetuate inequality and GBV. The inclusion of girls in sports has given them a platform to reclaim their voices, build physical and emotional strength, and demand their right to participate in public life. Football, a game often dismissed as a male-dominated sport, has become a vehicle for these young girls to assert their rights, dismantle patriarchal norms, and stand against the widespread GBV in their communities.




Araweelo FC and Aisha FC: Symbols of Strength and Resistance
In 2023, the program established two all-girls football teams, Araweelo FC and Aisha FC, in Garowe, Somalia. These teams have faced many obstacles, from religious and cultural resistance to a lack of women-only facilities and sports attire. Araweelo FC, named after the legendary Somali queen known for her strength and defiance, and Aisha FC, honoring the memory of a young Somali girl who was tragically kidnapped and murdered, have stood as symbols of resistance and resilience.
The teams played more than six girls-only matches, a significant achievement in a country where such opportunities were once unthinkable. By simply stepping onto the field, these girls are making a powerful statement: that they deserve a place in spaces traditionally reserved for men, and that their participation in sports is not just a game—it is an act of defiance against a culture that has long sidelined them.



Stories of Resilience
“Being part of this sports group has given us a sense of community and strength, both physically and emotionally. It has also given us the confidence to speak up for what we believe in and the courage to challenge the cultural norms that have kept Somali girls out of sports and other physical activities for so long,” says Nimo Mohamed, a member of Aisha FC.

“Now that I’ve overcome my fears, I’m committed to reaching my full potential. Being part of a united team allows us to work together, recognize each other’s strengths, and make the most of the resources we have to support one another,” adds Sadia Dire, a member of Araweelo FC.
These personal stories highlight the transformative power of football. It’s more than a game—it’s a tool for personal growth, self-expression, and community building.





Navigating Challenges
The road to empowerment for Somali girls through sports has not been without its challenges. Cultural and religious resistance to women’s participation in sports is one of the most significant hurdles. Misinterpretations of Islamic values have led to a backlash, with religious leaders opposing girls playing sports, particularly when it comes to issues of modesty and public visibility. Many girls have faced pressure from their families and communities to abandon their dreams of playing football, reinforcing the belief that sports are not for them.
Despite these obstacles, Hawa Feminist Coalition continues to push forward. In some instances, the resistance from religious figures and community leaders has even led to the cancellation of planned sports events. However, these setbacks have only strengthened the resolve of the girls and women involved in the program.
Moving Forward
The inclusion of women and girls in sports is not just about playing a game—it’s about challenging the deep-seated cultural norms that fuel gender inequality and GBV in Somalia. Football is providing Somali girls with the tools to build their confidence, develop physical and mental resilience, and most importantly, demand their rights.
Programs like “Sports as a Tool to Combat Gender-Based Violence” are crucial in this fight, providing a space for girls to grow, heal, and become leaders in their own right. The success of Araweelo FC and Aisha FC shows that change is possible, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable barriers.
As these girls continue to break down barriers, they are paving the way for future generations to step into the world of sports, not as outsiders, but as rightful participants in a movement toward gender equality and justice.
Hawa Feminist Coalition would like to express its gratitude to ONSIDE FUND for their financial support of this program, as well as to the Ministry of Sports and other stakeholders who contributed to its implementation.
Let the world take note: Somali girls are not just playing football—they are changing the game.