Recognized in 2020, Somalia's Cycling Federation Faces Challenges 

MOGADISHU - Bicycling enthusiasts around the globe are celebrating World Bicycle Day Thursday, including in Somalia, a Horn of Africa nation still struggling for stability after years of conflict. Somalia's cycling federation was just recognized last year and with poor roads and equipment, it's an uphill battle to prepare for upcoming international competition.

The Somali cycling federation has just 20 professional bicycles accepted in the International Cyclist’s Union (UCI), the world governing body for sports cycling based in Switzerland that oversees competition. Poor equipment and closed roads due to security threats from the armed militant group Al-Shabab, mainly in the capital, Mogadishu, are a couple of challenges facing young cyclists training for international competition. The secretary-general of the Somali cycling federation, Saed Ahmed Abukar, said despite the challenges, they are committed to building the sport at a grassroots level.