Mogadishu (ICRC) – Mogadishu University emerged victorious in this year’s Somali International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Competition, earning the honor of representing Somalia at the All Africa IHL Competition in Nairobi, Kenya, this November. The students from Mogadishu University triumphed in a closely contested final against Somali National University, impressing judges with their legal arguments on a fictitious case study that tested their knowledge of IHL. One team presented the prosecution’s case, while the other argued in defense.

“We worked tirelessly for two months preparing for this competition. It was definitely challenging at times, but in the end, we won, and I couldn’t be happier,” said Samira Yusuf Adam, a student representing Mogadishu University.

Organized by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), this year’s competition invited six universities from across Somalia to submit written prosecution and defense memorials, with the top two teams proceeding to present their cases orally before a panel of judges. This event, the third of its kind in Somalia, seeks to inspire students to engage deeply with IHL and expand their understanding of the laws that govern armed conflict. Notably, this year marks the first time the event has been held in person.

“It’s fantastic to hold this event in person, and we have high hopes for Mogadishu University as they prepare for the All Africa Competition,” said Katherine Weir, ICRC’s Legal Advisor and one of the event’s judges.

“This is a hallmark event for the ICRC and our academic partners. It’s about igniting a passion for IHL among Somalia’s future lawyers and building a legal community that’s both informed and driven by humanitarian values,” added Samer Jarjouhi, Head of ICRC Programs and Prevention in Somalia.

This year’s competition coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, which form the bedrock of modern IHL and to which Somalia became a signatory in 1962. The ICRC has maintained a presence in Somalia since 1977, supporting victims of armed conflict, often compounded by natural disasters.

For further information, please contact:

Abdikarim Mohamed, ICRC Nairobi, + 254 770 171 756 (English & Somali)

Fadumo Ali Jama, ICRC Mogadishu, +252 611 006 330 (English & Somali)

Email somaliablog@icrc.org or visit our website: www.icrc.org

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