Historic Milestone: First Eleven Female Officers Graduate from TURKSOM in Somalia

In a historic milestone for gender equality in military leadership, eleven female officers graduated from Türkiye’s TURKSOM military academy in Mogadishu, Somalia, on September 4, 2025. This marks the first time women have completed the rigorous training program, which aims to bolster the capabilities of the Somali National Army.

The graduation ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Turkish military leaders and representatives from the Somali government. The successful completion of the program signifies a significant step forward in empowering women in a region where their roles have traditionally been limited. The graduates, now commissioned as officers, are expected to play vital roles in enhancing security and stability in Somalia.

Founded in 2017, the TURKSOM academy has focused on building the capacity of the Somali military through comprehensive training and education. This achievement comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen Somalia"s national defense. As previously reported, similar initiatives have been observed in other regions, where women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in military contexts.

The implications of this graduation extend beyond the military; it symbolizes a broader movement toward gender inclusivity in Somalia and serves as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. The newly graduated officers are poised to influence future generations and contribute to peacekeeping efforts in the region.