Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali international boxing champion Ramla Said Ahmed Ali, known as Ramla Ali, has been awarded the Medal of Honor by the Governor of Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, Hassan Mohamed Hussein Muungaab, in recognition of her groundbreaking achievements on the global stage.

Ali, Somalia’s first Olympic boxer, was also recently decorated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for elevating the country’s name in international arenas and for demonstrating the resilience and talent of Somali women.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Muungaab praised Ali’s accomplishments, calling her an inspiration to Somali youth, particularly young women. 

“She became an example to Somali youth who want to compete internationally and represent the country. We encourage the youth to follow in Ramla’s footsteps,” he said. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening sports programs and expanding Somalia’s participation in the Olympic movement.

Ali, 35, who competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, expressed gratitude for the recognition and commended the president for progress made during his second term. “I have witnessed positive change in the country,” she said.

On Sunday, Ali received a hero’s welcome at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. Federal officials, community leaders, and fans carrying Somali flags gathered to celebrate her arrival. Ali turned professional in 2020 and has since built a record of 10 wins and two losses.

Her journey to the ring is as striking as her victories. Born in Mogadishu on Sept. 16, 1989, Ali fled the civil war with her family after her 12-year-old brother was killed by a mortar. The family moved through Kenya before resettling in London, where Ali discovered boxing as a teenager. Initially training in secret, she captured England’s national novice title in 2015, the elite national championships in 2016, and the African Zone featherweight title in 2019.

Ali’s rise has made her a symbol of hope for Somalis worldwide, bridging her country of birth and her adopted home while breaking barriers for women in sport.