Fadumo Dayib: Somalia’s First Female Presidential Hopeful

In this interview, Fadumo Dayib - a former refugee who became Finland’s first Somali nurse - speaks with Elsa Buchanan about her historic decision to run for president in a country where women in politics face intimidation, entrenched patriarchy, and real physical danger. Dayib outlines her vision for rebuilding Somalia through anti‑corruption reforms, education, and women’s leadership, while acknowledging the risks she faces simply for standing as a candidate. Her story bridges exile, return, and the belief that change in Somalia must include the voices long pushed aside.