Somali boxing star Ramli Ali awarded presidential honour

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has bestowed the certificate of honour on the country’s boxing icon, Ramla Ali, at the presidential palace

The award is a recognition to Ramla’s achievements in the boxing world, her contribution to Somali sports and her role in raising the country’s profile internationally.

President Mohamud praised Ramla as a national symbol of hope, unity and pride.

Ramla returned last week to Somalia for the first time in 30 years after building a successful boxing career abroad. She is Somalia’s first Olympic boxer after participating at the Tokyo 2022 Olympics.

In remarks at the Saturday event, Ramla thanked the Somali people, the government, and her fans for the warm welcome.

‘One of the proudest moments’

She also encouraged Somali youth to believe in themselves and follow their dreams regardless of the challenges.

“This is one of the proudest moments of my life,” Ramla said. “I want every young Somali, especially girls, to know they can achieve great things.”

Despite being a global figure in sports, fashion and activism, she says her heart has always been Somali.