Women in Somalia have always been the backbone of the home and family. Without them, neither the home nor society could function. In the past, their role was clear and defined, but now the world has changed, and even in Somalia, things are not the same as before.
In the old days, women in Somalia were the guardians of the home. They raised the children, cooked, cleaned, and helped in the fields or with the livestock if they lived in the countryside. People saw them as the ones who preserved the traditions, customs, and old family stories. In other words, they were the ones who passed on the culture to the children.
Education Changed Many Things
Since the beginning of the last century, education has gradually become accessible to girls. Schools opened in the cities, and girls began to read and write. Now, there are girls studying at university and becoming doctors and engineers. This education has given them a stronger voice and allowed them to participate more fully in life outside the home. Women are now in the streets and in politics.
In the last twenty or thirty years, you’ll find Women in Somalia in parliament, heading associations, and working in large organizations. They’re implementing education, health, and development programs. Society itself has begun to accept that women aren’t just for the home… no… they can also build the country alongside men.
But there are still many problems.
Despite all this, Women in Somalia still face difficulties. Poverty, wars, and rigid traditions in some tribes keep them confined. Early marriage and the belief that a woman’s rights are only half those of a man… all of this exists and still needs a lot of work to change.
Somali Women: Preserving Tradition, Shaping the Future
Somali culture isn’t static. Somali culture is vibrant and evolving. Women are the ones who tell stories, sing folk songs, and share old tales with their children… and at the same time, they’ve become doctors, ministers, and activists. They preserve their heritage while keeping up with the times.
Read Also: SOMALI WOMEN AND OBSTETRIC FISTULA.. MANY SOMALI WOMEN RECLAIM THEIR LIVES
Ultimately, Women in Somalia used to have a role only in the home. now they are full partners in everything. There is still a long way to go to achieve true equality, but what I see is that she will not give up and will continue to fight until society truly sees men and women as equals… not just empty words.
