As I traveled through various cities in Somalia and interacted with different people, I was struck by the common challenges faced by the Somali community. From pervasive inequality to violence against women and minorities, these issues continue to affect the country. However, I also witnessed a growing sense of unity among the Somali people as they come together to tackle these pressing issues and strive for positive change.
Inequality, in its various forms, is a significant challenge facing Somali society. Economic disparities, unequal access to education and healthcare, and social discrimination are widespread issues that affect different segments of the population.
During my tour of Somali soil, I met people from all walks of life – from rural villages to bustling urban centers – who shared their stories of struggling with poverty and lack of opportunities. Despite these challenges, I was inspired by their resilience and determination to improve their lives and create a more equitable society.
One of the key issues that Somali society is grappling with is violence against women. Women and girls in Somalia face numerous forms of violence, including domestic violence, rape, female genital mutilation, and child marriage. According to a UNICEF report, 98% of Somali women have experienced female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), which is often performed in the context of domestic violence.
These harmful practices are deeply rooted in cultural and traditional norms, but there is a growing movement to end them. In particular, I met brave women who are challenging these harmful practices and advocating for equal rights and protection. They are working tirelessly to change mindsets, raise awareness, and promote women’s rights, despite facing immense challenges and backlash from conservative elements of society. It was heartening to see how these women are united in their efforts to combat violence against women and create a more inclusive society.
Another significant challenge is the discrimination and violence faced by minorities in Somalia, including ethnic and religious minorities. Discrimination based on clan affiliation and origin is a persistent issue that has led to the marginalization and exclusion of minority groups. During my travels, I met members of minority communities who shared their stories of discrimination, violence, and persecution.
However, I also witnessed instances of solidarity and unity among different minority groups as they join forces to demand equal rights and opportunities. They are building alliances, advocating for their rights, and working towards creating a more inclusive society where everyone has an equal voice.
Despite the challenges, there is a palpable sense of unity and resilience among the Somali people. I was inspired by the efforts of civil society organizations, activists, and ordinary citizens who are working tirelessly to bring about positive change.
I met young people who are using social media and other platforms to raise awareness, initiate conversations, and mobilize for action. I encountered community leaders who are engaging in dialogue and promoting peace and reconciliation to overcome clan divisions. I saw diverse groups coming together to collaborate and find solutions to common challenges.
As I concluded my tour and reflected on my experiences, I was struck by the power of unity to drive positive change. When people come together, regardless of their differences, they can create a formidable force for transformation. The Somali people’s shared vision for a better future, their resilience in the face of challenges, and their determination to tackle inequality, violence against women, and minorities are a testament to the power of unity.
One of the key challenges that the Somali people face is inequality. This includes economic inequality, with many residents living in poverty and facing limited access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities. It also includes gender inequality, with violence against women being a prevalent issue in many parts of Somalia. Minority groups, such as the Bantu and other marginalized communities, also face discrimination and exclusion.
During my travels, I had the opportunity to talk with different people from diverse backgrounds, and it became clear that there is a shared understanding among the Somali people about the need to unite to face these common challenges. Despite differences in clan, ethnicity, or political affiliations, there is a growing recognition that the issues of inequality, violence against women, and discrimination against minorities affect everyone in Somalia. Many people I spoke with expressed a desire for unity and collaboration to tackle these issues collectively.
Another challenge is the lack of a strong and inclusive central government that can effectively address these issues at the national level. The current system of governance in Somalia is complex and fragmented, with power often concentrated in the hands of a few elite groups. This has led to a lack of accountability, transparency, and inclusivity in decision-making processes. There is a need for reforms that promote inclusive governance and ensure that the voices of all Somalis are heard and taken into consideration.
My travels across Somali cities have shown me that the Somali people are united in their resolve to face and overcome their common challenges but, fail to act on them. Violence against inequality, and violence against women and minorities, the Somali people have shown remarkable resilience and resourcefulness. They have taken it upon themselves to build their own infrastructure, establish their own universities, and preserve their rich cultural heritage, despite the lack of support from the central government in Hargeisa. This sense of self-reliance and community has been evident in cities like Borama, where the people have come together to construct roads and contribute their own resources to improve their city.
The Somali people’s collective efforts to address these issues are commendable. However, there is still a long way to go, and many obstacles to overcome. The road to change is not easy, and progress may be slow, but the unity and determination of the Somali people are evident. It is essential to continue building on these efforts and promoting inclusivity, equality, and social justice.
