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African Games: Mohamed shatters 35-year curse for Somalia as Kenya’s Kemboi adds to medal haul in 5,000m final

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African Games: Mohamed shatters 35-year curse for Somalia as Kenya’s Kemboi adds to medal haul in 5,000m final
Sunday March 24, 2024

African Games: Mohamed shatters 35-year curse for Somalia as Kenya’s Kemboi adds to medal haul in 5,000m final

Abdullahi Jama Mohamed made history on Friday night at the African Games in Ghana, clinching a silver medal in the competitive men's 5000m final, marking Somalia's first medal on the global stage in over 35 years.

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Competing against a strong field, Mohamed finished with an impressive time of 13:38.64, narrowly behind Ethiopia's Gebrhiwet Berhe, who took the gold with a time of 13:38.12.

Abdullahi, who was the sole representative from Somalia in the event hosted in Ghana, showcased an inspiring level of dedication.

In a stark revelation, it was disclosed that Abdullahi had to cover his own travel expenses to the championships after the Somalia Athletics Federation was unable to fund his ticket, adding a poignant layer to his victory.

In the women's category, Ethiopia demonstrated its dominance with a hat-trick of victories.

Eisa Kumanda Medina clinched the gold with a remarkable time of 15mn04s32, leading a sweep for Ethiopia as she finished ahead of compatriots Kesete Birtukan Molla and Shaarew Melkat Wudu, who secured second and third places, respectively.