Somalia’s Historic Leap into Women’s Football: The Ocean Queens U-17 Team’s Journey

By Shafi’i Mohyaddin Abokar

In a groundbreaking moment for Somalia, the Ocean Queens U-17 squad is poised to participate in the upcoming Arab U-17 tournament, taking place in Jordan from March 26, 2026. This event marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s footballing history, especially in a nation where just a few years ago, women’s football was shrouded in cultural taboos.

The Stigma of Women’s Football

In Somalia, the journey towards the acceptance of women’s football has been fraught with challenges. For many, the idea of girls playing football was not just frowned upon; it was viewed as one of the greatest shames a family could face. Traditional mindset and cultural beliefs largely dictated that women should not engage in sports, especially those considered “un-Islamic.” Even boys faced adversity, with football banned by militants who viewed the game as incompatible with their ideologies.

Visionary Leadership

Ali Abdi Mohamed, the president of the Somali Football Federation (SFF), has emerged as a key figure in changing these perceptions. His unwavering commitment and perseverance in promoting women’s football have been pivotal. In a recent statement, he reflected on the struggles and triumphs: “We have worked tirelessly to get our women’s national team on track. It was a long and difficult journey to persuade our community that women’s football is not a crime in the Islamic stance.”

Through determination and advocacy, the SFF has undertaken extensive efforts to change societal views on women’s participation in sports. Mohamed emphasized the importance of appropriate attire, stating that as long as women dress accordingly, there shouldn’t be any shame in playing football.

Pioneering Initiatives for Development

The path to acceptance has been paved with dedicated initiatives by the SFF. Mohamed noted, “We did everything in our capacity to develop women’s football. We introduced grassroots programs and provided the necessary training and equipment to our female footballers.” His visit to the team’s training ground underscored his commitment to ensuring that the players have the resources they need to succeed.

The creation of grassroots programs has been crucial. These initiatives not only provide training opportunities but also foster a sense of community among female players. Now, dozens of women’s football clubs thrive in Somalia, a testament to the shift in cultural perception.

An Empowered Generation

The rise of women’s football has inspired a new generation of young girls across Somalia. Where once they would have been discouraged or outright prohibited from engaging in sports, now they can proudly don their jerseys and kick a ball. There is a palpable excitement and eagerness among these young athletes, who are finally given the chance to pursue their passion.

This transformation would have seemed unimaginable only a few years ago. Yet through awareness campaigns and grassroots initiatives, societal attitudes are slowly changing. Mohamed’s vision for women’s football is now shared by many, and the sport is beginning to thrive.

A Historical Milestone Awaits

As the Ocean Queens prepare for the Arab U-17 tournament, the anticipation is palpable. This event serves as not just a competitive opportunity, but a historic statement about the evolving role of women in Somali society. It is a powerful symbol of progress, resilience, and empowerment in a country that has faced considerable challenges.

The upcoming tournament represents a chance for these young athletes to not only showcase their skills but to also rewrite the narrative around women’s involvement in sports in Somalia. Their participation is an inspiring chapter in a story of change and perseverance that continues to unfold.

This is more than just a football tournament; it’s a celebration of breaking boundaries, challenging stereotypes, and forging pathways for future generations of Somali women. As they lace up their boots and step onto the pitch, they carry with them the hopes and dreams of an evolving nation.