Mogadishu (ICRC): In a breakthrough victory, SIMAD University has won the 2026 Somali International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Competition, earning the chance to represent Somalia at the All-Africa finals.
They overcame seasoned competitors, Mogadishu University, in a closely contested final that tested legal reasoning and mastery of IHL.
The competition brought together teams of three law students each. Seven universities from across the country submitted written memorials in the preliminary round of the competition, with SIMAD University and Mogadishu University advancing to the final.
The final featured a simulated detention visit, reflecting real-world operations of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and a moot court session where teams argued both prosecution and defence in a fictional IHL case.
“We are so excited. We learnt a lot and are grateful for the opportunity,” said Ayni Abdulkadir, one of the students from SIMAD University.
Hafsa Jelle of Mogadishu University was named Best Oralist for outstanding eloquence before the three-judge panel.
Held on 30 June 2026 in Mogadishu, the final saw first-time finalists SIMAD University face returning champions Mogadishu University, who have dominated the competition since in-person competitions started in 2024.
“The passion displayed by both teams shows the growing interest in IHL among the younger generation,” said Antoine Grand, Head of the ICRC in Somalia.
“Congratulations to SIMAD University and we will be cheering them on at the All-Africa Finals later this year.”
The competition comes as Somalia recently joined the Global IHL Initiative, reinforcing its commitment to promoting and respecting humanitarian norms. Against this backdrop, the Somali IHL Competition continues to stand out as one of the country’s leading academic platforms, nurturing a new generation of legal professionals who understand that even in conflict, the law matters.
For further information, please contact:
Rahime Adan, ICRC, +254 705 410 641, radanissack@icrc.org (English & Somali)
Fadumo Ali Jama, ICRC Mogadishu, +252 611 006 330, falijama@icrc.org (English & Somali)
Email: somaliablog@icrc.org or visit our website: www.icrc.org
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