About the Activity
In Hudur, Southwest State, Somali Development Initiative (SODIN) organized a community football tournament as part of its efforts to use sports as a tool to address the drivers of violent extremism (VE) among youth.
The event brought together young people from different villages, clans, and backgrounds, fostering social cohesion and mutual respect through teamwork and healthy competition. Beyond the matches, the tournament served as a platform for awareness-raising on the root causes of radicalization, such as marginalization, unemployment, and lack of positive identity.
Short awareness sessions were held before and after games, focusing on the importance of peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and youth responsibility in preventing violent extremism. Community elders, local leaders, and mentors also participated, emphasizing collective action in promoting stability.
The initiative demonstrated that sports can be a powerful, low-cost tool to engage vulnerable youth, reduce tensions, and encourage inclusive dialogue in conflict-affected areas like Hudur.