Mogadishu, Somalia – (African Boulevard News) – In Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, amid a construction boom following improvements in security, civil engineer Faduma Mohamed Ali is hard at work, often supervising male laborers twice her age and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Ali is part of a growing number of women engineers who are defying societal norms and making their mark in Somalia’s construction industry. With the country experiencing a surge in infrastructure development, female engineers are seizing the opportunity to contribute their expertise and showcase their capabilities.
“I’ve always had a passion for engineering, and I believe that women can excel in this field just as well as their male counterparts,” Ali said. “Although challenges remain, I am determined to overcome any obstacles and prove that women have a vital role to play in Somalia’s reconstruction efforts.”
According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), only 8% of Somalia’s engineering workforce is female. However, efforts are underway to change this statistic. Organizations like the Somali Women Engineers Association (SWEA) are working tirelessly to promote gender equality in the industry and encourage more women to pursue careers in engineering.
“Women bring unique perspectives and skills to the table, and it is crucial that they are included in the decision-making process of construction projects,” said Amina Hussein, the president of SWEA. “Through mentorship programs, networking events, and advocacy, we aim to empower women engineers and create a supportive environment for their professional growth.”
These initiatives are already yielding results. Aisha Ahmed, another female engineer, has successfully completed several high-profile projects in Mogadishu, including the construction of schools and hospitals. “Being a woman in this field has its challenges, but it also offers opportunities to make a significant impact,” Ahmed said. “Every day, I am inspired by the resilience and determination of my fellow female engineers, and together, we are breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes.”
The inclusion of women in the construction industry not only promotes gender equality but also contributes to the overall development and progress of Somalia. By harnessing the skills and expertise of women engineers, the country can achieve more sustainable and inclusive growth.
As Somalia continues its path towards stability and reconstruction, it is essential to recognize and support the valuable contributions of women in the construction sector. By breaking barriers and defying societal expectations, female engineers like Faduma Mohamed Ali and Aisha Ahmed are paving the way for future generations, proving that women have a crucial role to play in transforming Somalia’s infrastructure landscape.
