Money transfer firm Dahabshiil awarded at international Somali gala

Britain’s Minister for Africa James Duddridge (left) presents Dahabshiil CEO Abdirashid Duale with the Business of the Year award. Mr Duale has said Dahabshiil is ready to work with the AU for the benefit of the larger African community that benefits from remittances from the diaspora.

Money transfer company Dahabshiil is one of the institutions that were this week recognised for its contribution to recognition of the Somali community in the international society.

British-Somali athlete Mo Farah was awarded the Sportsman of the Year in the ceremony to recognise the contribution of the Somali community internationally.

Dahabshiil was feted as the business of the year.

British Prime Minister who attended the event said: “Despite the hardships and challenges they have faced, many Somalis, both within Somalia and across the worldwide diaspora have achieved incredible success in fields as varied as business, academia and sport. I know that for many people around the world, one of the defining moments of the London Olympics in 2012 came courtesy of a man born in Mogadishu: the great Mo Farah,” he said.

Mr Cameron added: “But what I find more remarkable is that Mo’s story is actually just one example of the dedication shown by so many within the Somali community. So to each winner I say this: It is your hard work, creativity, courage and leadership that has brought you here; many congratulations for all you have achieved.”

The premier supported a ministerial assembly at the International Somali Awards (ISA), which were co-sponsored by the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Other award winners included British film maker, Mo Ali; NGO, Adesco Africa and academic and humanitarian group Hawa Jama Abdi.

The ISA pays tribute to inspiring Somali success stories and recognises inspirational role models from the fields of business, social work, sports, education and entertainment.

“It is an honour to be recognised by the International Somali Awards for my sporting achievements. The Awards are an important opportunity to celebrate the inspiring stories of people from around the world. Somalia has created some truly remarkable people and it is time we acknowledge their efforts,” said Mo Farah.

Companies such as Dahabshiil and Efritin.com have led the way in social entrepreneurship and fostering job creation in the Somali region.

http://www.nation.co.ke/news/africa/somali-community/1066-3133974-mnjlt0z/index.html

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