President Mohamud Welcomes Ramla Ali, Pledges Support for Youth in Sport

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Saturday received boxing champion and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Ramla Ali at Villa Somalia, praising her as a national inspiration and a symbol of resilience.

Ali, the first Somali to compete at the Olympic Games, shared her story with the president, recalling how she began boxing at the age of 12 and chose in 2016 to represent Somalia on the international stage.

The president commended Ali for her achievements and presented her with an honorary certificate and a gift in recognition of her contribution to Somali sport. “Your journey inspires the youth of this nation and shows the world the strength of Somali determination,” he said.

Ali, who fled Somalia as a child before rising to international prominence, said she was proud to carry the Somali flag in global competitions. She also praised the president for progress made during his second term, describing him as “very loved amongst the people.”

The meeting underlined the government’s support for Somali athletes and its commitment to encouraging women and youth in sport.