Sports have long been recognized as a powerful tool for bringing people together, fostering understanding, and promoting peace and development within communities. This was the central theme of a recent awareness-raising event held in Galkayo, Somalia, attended by members of sports associations from the Puntland and Galmudug regional states.
The event, part of ongoing efforts to strengthen peace and social cohesion in the region, provided a platform for participants to explore the role of sports in promoting peace, community development, and social integration. Attendees shared insights and experiences, highlighting the numerous benefits of sports in bridging divides and fostering a sense of unity.
One of the key messages that emerged was the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and programs, particularly for youth. Participants emphasized the need for increased support from authorities and organizations to facilitate the development of sports facilities, equipment, and training opportunities within the Galkayo district.
“We truly welcome this first step in utilizing sports for social integration,” said one participant. “We hope that this will lead to the revival of tournaments and competitions, as promised, with even larger events being organized in the future.”
Another attendee highlighted the potential of sports to engage and empower large numbers of young people, stating, “If ten teams participate in a tournament, it can involve up to five hundred people directly. This reach is invaluable in promoting social cohesion and positive development.”
Participants called on national authorities and organizations to support the youth by providing sports equipment, training, and seminars, recognizing the crucial role sports can play in fostering peace, unity, and personal growth within the community.
As the event concluded, attendees expressed their gratitude for the initiative and their hope that it would mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to leveraging the power of sports for the betterment of Galkayo and the broader region.
