Somali activists recently commemorated International Women’s Day, showcasing the incredible resilience of women like Zahra Mohamed Ahmad, who epitomizes courage amid a backdrop of conflict. Following the 1991 governmental collapse, Zahra, also known as Mama Zahra, bravely returned to Somalia in 2000 to champion justice and equality, founding the Somali Women Development Center (SWDC) to uplift those in need despite her personal tragedies.
Zahra’s heart-wrenching loss of her only son, murdered in Mogadishu, fuels her commitment to aiding the marginalized. Recognized by the U.S. State Department in 2021 with the International Women of Courage Award, she recalls somber memories of famine and displacement, highlighting how each March 8th serves as a painful reminder of their ongoing struggles.
In Mogadishu, activist Duniyo Mohamed Ali acknowledges the historical role of Somali women in family survival during the civil war, crediting them with establishing schools, clinics, and peace dialogues. Meanwhile, in Puntland, celebrations were exchanged for efforts to prepare food for soldiers engaged in battles against Islamic State militants, as community chairperson Kafi Ali Jire explains the day has transformed into a support initiative instead of joyous festivities.
Despite their efforts, Somali women still face political challenges, lacking representation in decision-making roles necessary to reach a 30% quota in parliament. Women’s rights advocate Lul Mohamed Sheikh highlights that only half the needed seats for female candidates have been secured, revealing the cultural barriers and the slow progress due to clan dynamics blocking women’s political participation.
As women continue to grapple with societal norms and persistent conflicts, their stories of strength remind us of their crucial role in Somalia’s trajectory. This International Women’s Day arrived in a disheartening context, as the humanitarian crisis deepens with 3.4 million registered as food insecure, expected to swell to 4.4 million. Immediate aid is essential, especially for the 1.7 million children under five facing severe malnutrition. WFP spokesperson Jean-Martin Bauer stressed the urgency for increased donor support amidst this escalating crisis.
On International Women’s Day, Somali activists honour women like Zahra Mohamed Ahmad for their resilience in the face of conflict. While they continue to push for justice and equality, challenges such as low political representation and a deepening humanitarian crisis persist. Aid is urgently needed for the rising number of food-insecure people, particularly children under five, highlighting the critical situation facing Somalia today.
The commemoration of International Women’s Day in Somalia revealed the remarkable resilience of women like Zahra Mohamed Ahmad, who continue to fight for justice and equality. Despite challenges in political representation and ongoing humanitarian crises, these women persist in their roles as community guardians and advocates. Their stories serve as a poignant reminder that the strength of Somali women is vital to shaping a brighter future for the nation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
