First Basketball tournament for nearly 21 years was concluded in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland state on Friday afternoon. At least three teams from three regions were playing the competition at Garowe technical School.
Members from Puntland Diaspora community have organized the event to energize Basketball role in peace building. Retired Somali basketball legend Mohamed Madobe said the tournament was held to endorse region’s sports progress.
In his opening remarks, Puntland minster for youth and Sports Abdurahman Shikh Ahmed acknowledged Diaspora activities and called them to return home.
“People in here are very skillful, but they need coaching and it’s why I come here. I left my family and children in Canada to serve my nation “Madoobe said. Nugaal region players won the trophy following a tough final with Mudug region team.
The minister said that Puntland administration is working to empower sports, urging youths to stay connected. Somalia’s northeastern regional state of Puntland has been fighting Al-shabaab fighters in Gal-gala Mountains.