Mogadishu, Somalia — The (CAFIS) Team is using football to raise awareness and express empathy for victims of Somalia’s three decades of conflict, particularly individuals who have lost limbs. Many of these survivors, including youth caught in crossfire, aspire to reintegrate into their communities rather than succumb to despair, and CAFIS is amplifying their voices through sport.
As the event unfolded at Engineer Yarisow Stadium, the warm Mogadishu sun set the tone for a day of healing, hope, and renewed unity. Hundreds of Somalis from across the city and beyond gathered to celebrate CAFIS Forgiveness Day 2025, a landmark occasion highlighting the power of forgiveness, sport, and dialogue in helping heal a nation long divided by violence.
For eight years, CAFIS Forgiveness Day has served as a beacon of peace amid Somalia’s turbulent history. This year’s celebration brought together amputee footballers, former football legends, youth teams, community leaders, journalists, and religious scholars—demonstrating Somalia’s remarkable capacity to heal both visible and invisible wounds caused by conflict.
During halftime, Abdalla, an amputee player, shared his personal journey with the crowd. “When that car bomb took my leg three years ago, I wanted revenge,” he said. “But today, I play for peace.” His story reflected the spirit of the tournament, where players transformed from victims of war into ambassadors of resilience, reconciliation, and hope.
Fartun Ali, a member of the National Disability Commission, emphasized the importance of sports activities for amputees, stating that they are just like any other human beings who need recreational activities and entertainment to help them forget their past and what they have endured. This, she believes, is a significant step toward full forgiveness. “The amputees are just like any other human beings.
A standout moment came when 22-year-old Sayid Ali Ahmed, who lost a leg in a mortar attack, executed a perfect mid-air crutch kick, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd. According to the Somali Disability Rights Network, more than 12,000 civilians have suffered amputations since 2010. CAFIS supports many of these individuals by providing access to prosthetics, counseling, and opportunities for social reintegration through sport.
Following the amputee match, which ended 5–3, Somalia’s football legends took to the pitch in a symbolic game that concluded 2–1. Former national players, many now working as taxi drivers or shop owners, relived moments of unity and pride. “These young amputees are healers, not just footballers,” said former player Abdijoon, as the celebration closed with a powerful reminder of Somalia’s enduring resilience and shared future.
