Kenyan-Somali activist Bisharo Ali Hussein nominated to speak at Spain's Gira de Primavera

Bisharo Ali Hussein, a Kenyan-Somali activist and outspoken champion for women's rights and gender equality in Somalia, has been nominated to attend the Gira de Primavera (tour of spring) in Spain to talk about her work and experience.

Bisharo Ali Hussein, a Kenyan of Somali origin born in 1990, is an expert in politics, gender, and migration and is currently working in the field of migration and development in the East and the Horn of Africa.

She studied in Uganda and Kenya and holds a postgraduate degree in gender studies from Iceland and a master's degree in public policy from the Netherlands and Spain.

Passionate about gender equality, health, and the rights of women and girls, she consults for the government in Kenya, providing technical support to implement national, local, and regional development plans and policies aimed at positively impacting the lives of citizens, migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.

She is a member of the global Young Women Mediators and is completing a course on diplomacy, negotiation, and mediation to engage in broader negotiations both locally and globally.

Throughout her 11 years of experience in the humanitarian field, Bisharo has developed a particular interest in gender equality, afro-feminism, and women's empowerment through education and equal opportunities, conflict resolution, human rights, and peacebuilding, among others.

One of her notable contributions is conflict mediation, which is vital for ensuring peace in territories and preventing violence.

Despite facing obstacles as a woman and stereotypes related to her youth, she remains committed to having her voice heard in mediation.

Another focus of Bisharo's work is achieving real and effective gender equality across the African continent, ending all forms of discrimination, and amplifying and listening to women's voices. She believes in the potential of African women's entrepreneurship and leadership to transform the continent.

However, the path is still fraught with obstacles, as highlighted in the latest report by Amnesty International, which reveals patterns of gender discrimination and inequality, including violence against women, in various African countries.

The report also denounces the lack of prevention and protection measures for women and inadequate access to healthcare, sexual and reproductive health services, psychological support, and legal and social support.

Bisharo maintains that Somali women continue to be among the most vulnerable groups in the country.

She emphasises the importance of further progress in enhancing women's participation across all sectors, advocating for their full involvement in politics and labour markets to foster sustainable development and economic growth in Somalia.

Despite facing varied responses to her activism, particularly regarding gender equality and early marriage, Bisharo remains steadfast in her commitment to advocating for women and engaging in humanitarian efforts.