In Mogadishu, Somalia's capital, the construction industry is witnessing a shift as women begin to break into the traditionally male-dominated field. Farhiya Abdikadir Mohamed and Halima Abukar are among those challenging gender norms by working in road building through the World Bank-backed Somalia Urban Resilience Project – Phase II, also known as the Nagaad Project.
The Nagaad Project has reached 494,910 people so far, half of whom are women. It aims to improve urban infrastructure across six Somali cities: Mogadishu, Garowe, Baidoa, Kismayo, Dhusamareeb, and Beledweyne. The project includes constructing roads with solar streetlights and drainage systems and rehabilitating bridges. Upon completion, it is expected to benefit an additional 700,000 people.
The project's municipal drought response has supported over one million Somalis. It focuses on enhancing local government capacity for service delivery and strengthening urban resilience against climate shocks.
At a construction site in Mogadishu's Shangaani district, Farhiya and Halima stand out not because they are out of place but because they represent change. Both women faced challenges entering this field but have persevered with determination.
Farhiya was initially hesitant about working in construction due to societal expectations that women should take on traditional roles. "I grew up in a society where women were expected to take on traditional roles," she said. However, she decided to pursue her interest after being recruited by the Nagaad Project.
Halima entered construction driven by necessity after previous jobs failed to provide financial stability for her family. "When I heard about the opportunity...I wasn’t sure I could do it," she said. Despite initial doubts from male colleagues about their capabilities, both women have proven themselves through hard work.
Mohamed Sheikh Ahmed from Banaadir Regional Administration praised their efforts: “Halima and Farhiya are among the hardest workers...This is not just about roads or employment; it’s about shifting mindsets.”
Both women have experienced personal empowerment through their work. Farhiya gained independence while Halima can now support her children's needs financially. They aspire to further their careers within construction and mentor other women entering this field.
Their success has inspired others within their communities who once doubted women's abilities in such roles—now asking how they too can join similar projects—demonstrating that gender does not limit potential when skill meets determination.
As these pioneers continue paving new paths on freshly constructed roads throughout Mogadishu today—they know they've already begun creating opportunities for future generations of Somali women tomorrow.
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