Mogadishu, SONNA – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, presided over the closing ceremony of the Holy Quran Competition held during the holy month of Ramadan. The event, which celebrated the recitation and memorization of the Quran, saw the President award cash prizes to the winners, highlighting the nation’s commitment to its religious and cultural values.
In his remarks, President Hassan Sheikh emphasized the significance of the competition, stating that it reflects the Somali people’s and government’s dedication to their faith and their efforts to promote the study and practice of Islam.
“This Holy Quran competition demonstrates how the Somali people and government adhere to their pure religion and are committed to studying and practicing it,” said President Hassan Sheikh. He reaffirmed that the Somali state stands for the protection of religion and the implementation of Islamic law.
The President awarded the top prize of $20,000 to Abdirahman Abdullahi Osman, who secured first place in this year’s competition. Other winners were also recognized and rewarded for their outstanding performances:
- Abdirahman Abdullahi Osman – $20,000
- Zakariye Abdullahi Hassan Rooble – $15,000
- Osman Abdullahi Osman – $10,000
- Aaisha Aden Mohamed – $7,000
- Abdirahman Ali Hussein – $5,000
- Osama Yusuf Farhan – $3,000
- Ibrahim Abdirahman Ibrahim – $2,000
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud commended the parents, teachers, and mentors who nurtured the talents of the competition’s participants. He prayed for their continued success, saying, “May God benefit them, bless their understanding, and make them individuals who serve their country and their religion.”
The Holy Quran Competition is an annual event that brings together talented Quran reciters from across the country, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual growth among Somalis. This year’s competition not only celebrated the participants’ achievements but also showedd the government’s support for religious education and cultural preservation.
As Somalia continues to rebuild and strengthen its institutions, events like the Holy Quran Competition serve as a reminder of the nation’s rich heritage and its commitment to upholding Islamic values.
