By Suleiman Sabdow
Mogadishu – Somalia Federal Government President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, on Saturday received Somali-born international boxing star Ramla Ali at the Presidential Palace (Villa Somalia) in Mogadishu, where she was formally honored with a certificate of recognition for her outstanding contributions to sport and her role in uplifting Somalia’s image on the global stage.
Ramla Ali, who returned to Somalia this week for the first time since fleeing the country with her family in 1992 following the collapse of the central government led by the late President Mohamed Siyad Barre, was warmly welcomed in Mogadishu by government officials, youth groups, and admirers of her achievements.
During the official ceremony, President Hassan Sheikh praised Ramla Ali for her determination, resilience, and for being a source of inspiration for young Somalis, particularly women and girls, across the world.
https://twitter.com/frontieronlinek/status/1969355477923266738?s=46“Ramla represents the spirit of the
Somali people, resilient, proud, and capable of achieving greatness and her success is not only a personal triumph but a symbol of hope and unity for our nation.” said President Mohamud.
Ramla Ali made history as the first Somali woman to compete in boxing at the Olympic Games, representing Somalia at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
She is also an accomplished author, model, and a prominent advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment.
In her remarks, Ramla expressed her profound gratitude to the Somali government and people for the honour and warm reception.
She revealed that she had hoped to return to Mogadishu in 2016, but security conditions at the time made the visit impossible, and commended President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for his leadership in restoring peace and stability to the country, which made her return in 2025 a reality.
“Returning to Somalia after so many years and being recognized by the President is incredibly emotional and inspiring,” she said.
“I carry Somalia in my heart wherever I go, and this moment only deepens my commitment to giving back and encouraging our youth to believe in themselves.”
President Mohamud reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting Somali talent across all fields and highlighted the vital role sports play in promoting peace, unity, and national pride.
Somalia is currently reeling from decades of civil war and insurgency that has crippled critical sectors like sports.
