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First Somali woman to be elected to office Asha Omar Warsame dies

Asha Omar Warsame, the first Somali woman to be popularly elected to office.

By Paul Aginnah | Thursday, January 11, 2024

Her election shattered gender barriers and challenged societal norms regarding women's involvement in politics

Asha Omar Warsame, the first Somali woman to be popularly elected to office, has passed away in Hargeysa.

Asha made history on June 1, 1963, when she was elected as a councilor to the Hargeysa city council through the socialist-leaning Somali Democratic Union (also known as Calancas).

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Her election shattered gender barriers and challenged societal norms regarding women's involvement in politics.

Following Asha's election, several women, including MPs and those serving as Ministers, have followed in her footsteps.

Fawzia Yusuf Haji Adam, born in Hargeysa, has notably served as the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister in the Federal Government of Somalia.

By breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, Asha opened doors for women in Somali politics and beyond.

Her bravery and resilience inspired and paved the way for other women to enter the political arena and make their voices heard, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and representative democracy.

Asha's legacy is not only remembered for her historic accomplishment but also her deep connection to her community.

Her son, Jama Shabeel, followed in her footsteps and became the former Mayor of Hargeysa, as well as an outspoken politician.