In a landmark achievement for sports in Somalia, the Somali Women’s National Football Team, known as the Ocean Queens, is set to participate in its first international tournament. The team will compete in the Arab U-17 Women’s Tournament, scheduled to take place in Jordan starting on March 26, 2026. This momentous occasion marks a significant turning point in a nation where women’s football was once deemed taboo.
Over the past few years, cultural attitudes towards women in sports have shifted dramatically in Somalia, thanks in large part to the efforts of the Somali Football Federation (SFF) and its president, Ali Abdi Mohamed. He has been a driving force in promoting women’s football, transforming perceptions and advocating for the rights of female athletes.
“The journey has been long and challenging, but we have worked tirelessly to place our women’s national team on the global stage,” said Ali Abdi Mohamed. He emphasized the importance of community awareness and education in facilitating this change. “It was crucial to show that women’s football is not a crime from an Islamic perspective, provided that women dress appropriately,” he added.
The challenges were significant. For many years, girls playing football was seen as a source of shame, discouraging parents from allowing their daughters to participate in the sport. The SFF has implemented grassroots programs, providing necessary training and equipment to aspiring female footballers.
Ibtisam Yasin, head of women’s football at the SFF, noted that the establishment of women’s football clubs across the country has been a revolutionary development. “Once an impossible dream, women’s football is now flourishing in Somalia,” she stated. The SFF is currently organizing the first official national football league for women, which aims to increase participation and visibility.
The Ocean Queens’ upcoming participation in the tournament in Jordan represents a culmination of these efforts. It is not just a sporting event; it symbolizes a broader movement towards gender equality and empowerment within Somali society.
“Many people doubted that we could reach this point, but we proved them wrong,” Ali Abdi Mohamed declared. His commitment to ensuring that the team has the resources necessary for success illustrates the dedication of the SFF to elevate women’s sports in Somalia.
As the Ocean Queens prepare for their historic debut, they serve as role models for young girls across the country. Their journey illustrates the transformative power of sport, as it fosters unity, resilience, and hope in a nation striving for progress. The Somali community now stands behind its women’s national team, eager to support their athletes as they take this monumental step onto the international stage.
In conclusion, the Ocean Queens’ participation in the Arab U-17 tournament is not just about football; it is about challenging stereotypes and paving the way for future generations of female athletes in Somalia. As the tournament approaches, excitement builds, and hopes are high for what this team can achieve.
