By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
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MOGADISHU, 26 October 2026 — Somali mothers working in everyday jobs, including selling milk, vegetables and grain, were honoured at the Women’s Leadership Award in Mogadishu on Sunday, 25 October, in a ceremony recognising women who support their families and serve their communities.
The event was organised by Deeqa Ahmed Ismail, who said the idea emerged from her travels across Africa and her participation in conferences focused on three key areas: youth, women and the environment.
Guests included Siraad Mohamed Nur, widely known as Mama Ugaaso, members of parliament, women serving in the federal government and the Banadir regional administration, and other invited guests.
Deeqa praised the patience and resilience of Somali mothers, saying many begin work as early as 6:00 a.m. and return home in the evening to care for their children and manage household responsibilities.
“These are people who were never seen on stage before, but today they have been honoured,” she said, referring to mothers working in everyday occupations.
Siraad Mohamed Nur, head of the Maama Ugaaso Foundation, described the ceremony as an important opportunity to recognise Somali women both at home and in the diaspora.
“Sometimes I feel their role is forgotten, but it is never forgotten by God,” Siraad said.
She highlighted the contribution of Somali women to raising and supporting younger generations, describing their role as central to the development of families and communities.
“The Somali woman is a pillar of strength. She is a mother, and a mother was originally a girl,” she said.
Siraad also encouraged a culture of recognising people's contributions while they are still alive and actively serving their communities, rather than waiting until they retire or die.
“Now society is learning, alhamdulillah. Telling someone ‘thank you’ while they are still doing the work becomes the fuel that keeps them doing good,” she said.
Deeqa said the programme had faced several challenges and was postponed three times, primarily because of difficulties securing an affordable venue.
She said renting a suitable hall in Mogadishu could cost more than $1,000, while some individuals who had pledged support did not fulfil their commitments.
“Every programme needs two things: a venue and a time. I found the time, but the venue was hard to get,” Deeqa said.
Despite the setbacks, Deeqa thanked those who supported the initiative and helped bring the ceremony to fruition.
The Women’s Leadership Award Awards brought recognition to mothers whose work in markets and other everyday occupations helps sustain Somali households and communities.