A Woman, A Horse, and a Dream: Shukri Osman Muse Breaks Barriers in Somalia
A striking figure weaves through the chaotic streets of Mogadishu—clad in black from head to toe, a cowboy hat perched atop her head, pink sunglasses adding a touch of flair. But it’s not just the outfit that turns heads. It’s the fact that she’s riding a horse.
In conservative Somalia, where traditional gender roles dictate much of society, 25-year-old Shukri Osman Muse is breaking new ground as the country’s first female equestrian.
“This was a dream of mine for many years,” Muse shares. “I am delighted to finally be living it.”
Her journey to horseback riding was not an easy one. Just a year ago, she had never even been near a horse, let alone ridden one. The challenge wasn’t just learning the sport—it was figuring out where to even begin.
“I didn’t even know where to find horses,” she admits.
Yet, through sheer determination and months of intensive training, she not only became a skilled rider but now proudly owns her own horse. Her ambition doesn’t stop there—she hopes to join Somalia’s equestrian federation and represent her country on an international stage.
A Cultural Shift on Horseback
For Muse, this isn’t just about personal achievement. In a society where women often face barriers in sports and public life, she’s riding toward something bigger.
“I wanted to show everyone that it is entirely normal for women to ride horses and that it is permissible according to our religion,” she says.
Her trainer, Yahye Moallim Isse, sees her as a pioneer.
“Her achievement is an inspiration to all Somali people,” he says, proud of the student who dared to defy expectations.
Muse’s family also feels the ripple effect of her success. Her sister, Nadifo Osman, runs a beauty salon where Muse works, and the business has seen a surprising boost.
“People love taking photos with the horse,” she laughs. “We are incredibly proud of her.”
A Symbol of Peace and Progress
For many Mogadishu residents, Muse’s presence on horseback represents more than just a groundbreaking moment for women—it’s a sign of a changing Somalia.
After years of civil war, extremist insurgencies, and poverty, the city is slowly rebuilding. Abdifatah Abdi Haji Nur, a returning resident, sees Muse as proof of that transformation.
“I came back to Mogadishu because the city is safe again,” he says. “Seeing a woman riding a horse in the capital is a testament to this newfound peace.”
Muse’s quiet revolution on horseback is already inspiring others. As she rides through downtown Mogadishu, curious onlookers gather. Among them is Mohamed Adam Hassan, who watches in awe.
“I am inspired to learn horse riding myself,” he says. “Maybe I’ll even leave behind my tuk-tuk.”
Shukri Osman Muse is more than a rider—she’s a symbol of possibility, of change, and of a future where Somali women gallop toward their dreams, no matter the obstacles in their path.
