Youth in Southwest State have been encouraged to take part in sports activities to improve their health as well as spread peace and reconciliation, this message was emphasized today in Baidoa after the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) handed sports items to the Southwest State Ministry of Youth and Sports

While receiving the donated kits and items which also included some COVID-19 protective gear, Southwest Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Aba Awoow Sufi said the donations will go a long way in helping the youth to be active, healthy and busy.

"You can imagine the need we had for such equipment. Whoever supports us in any way is really helpful and appreciated. The equipment handed over to us like the trophies, balls, jerseys and corona protective equipment will help us a lot. They are essential equipment that we were really in need of and we will make use of them” said the deputy minister.

AMISOM Civilian Sector 3 Team Coordinator Fadil Karar who handed over the items reiterated AMISOM’s commitment to working closely with Southwest State authorities to support youth initiatives and encourage sports and recreation amongst the youth as a means to motivate healthy habits.

"We are glad to support Southwest Administration and also Ministry of Youth and Sports in the activities they requested support on youth activities and sports,” Karar said.

The donations were part of AMISOM’s Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) in Somalia aimed at strengthening relations with the local communities.