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Somalia's Lt. Colonel Iman Elman nominated for International courage award

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee, Lieutenant Colonel Iman Elman and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. (Villa Somalia)

By Yunis Dekow | Friday, February 16, 2024

The US Department of State acknowledged her as a lifelong defender of peace in Somalia.

The United States has acknowledged Lieutenant Colonel Iman Elman, a senior officer serving in the Somali National Army (SNA), for her courageous leadership.

Leading the National Army’s Civil Affairs Directorate, Lt. Col. Elman is a lifelong advocate for peace, human rights, and dignity.

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She was born in Somalia but raised in Canada in a family of peace activists. Her family later relocated to Mogadishu where she enrolled for the army in 2011.

Annually, UNANIMA International presents the “Woman of Courage Award” to women globally who exhibit exceptional courage and leadership, making a positive difference in their communities, particularly for the betterment of women and children.

Established in 2007, this award honors women demonstrating courage, strength, and leadership, often at great personal risk and sacrifice.

Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee nominated Lt. Col. Iman during her visit to Mogadishu, recognizing her advocacy for human rights protection, gender equity, empowerment of diverse women and girls, and global efforts towards peace and government transparency.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended the ceremony, marking Lt. Col. Iman's recognition for contributing to peace and stability in Somalia.

The US Department of State acknowledged her as a lifelong defender of peace in Somalia.

Leading Civil-Military Coordination efforts, Lt. Col. Iman enhanced integrated planning and coordination between civilians and the military, particularly in challenging situations.

She facilitated the provision of medical services in areas liberated by the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) from the militant group Al-Shabaab, strengthening soldier-local relationships and raising awareness about healthcare management.

The US Embassy in Mogadishu described Lt. Col. Iman as one of many brave women contributing to Somalia’s security through service in the armed forces.

Zeinab Hassan, a poet and writer, congratulated Lt. Col. Iman for her outstanding leadership and dedication on social media, expressing pride in her service and sacrifice.

“Proud of your outstanding leadership, dedication to serving your country and sacrifice,” she said on X.

Fadumo Ali, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the office of the Somali Prime Minister, commended Lt. Col. Iman Elman for her lifelong dedication to her country's stability.

“Her service to Somalia's security is exemplary. Congratulations on receiving the service medal and certificate,” she said.

Ali expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifice and dedication of the female officer, emphasizing that her efforts have significantly contributed to achieving the mandate of peace and security in Somalia.

The US Department of State, having recognized over 170 women from 80 countries for the International Woman of Courage Award, will see Lt. Col. Iman travel to Washington DC to receive her awards from the Secretary of State and the First Lady of the United States in a high-level ceremony around International Women’s Day (March 8).

During her visit to the United States, Lt. Col. Iman will be hosted for dinner by American Women for International Understanding (AWIU) in Los Angeles, California, providing awardees with special grants to continue their impactful work at home.