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Ten-year-old Aya Olleh Adams has made history as the youngest swimmer to represent Somalia in an international competition, marking an important milestone for the country’s return to global sports. Aya took part in the Africa Aquatics Zone III Swimming Championships held at the Kasarani Aquatic Centre in Nairobi from October 16 to 19. The event was especially meaningful for her, as it coincided with her 10th birthday — a fitting way to celebrate her growing journey in swimming.
Aya competed in nine different events, covering freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and medley races. Despite her young age, she showed great determination and enthusiasm. “I feel great having completed the competition,” Aya said in an interview with Uganda’s Daily Monitor. “I hope I can be an example to other Somali kids and inspire them to take up swimming in the future.”
Her participation continues Somalia’s growing presence in international swimming. Earlier in the year, 15-year-old Mustaf Islahom became the first Somali to compete at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Aya’s achievement builds on that momentum and highlights the Somali Aquatics Federation’s efforts to revive and support youth programs abroad.
Currently based in Uganda, Aya began her swimming journey at Hertz Swim Club in Wakiso before moving to Aqua Akii in Ntinda, Kampala. She trains under Coach Abel Ddemulirra, who has helped her refine her skills and prepare for international competitions. Aya has already earned recognition at home, having been named Best Female Swimmer in the 10-and-under category at the Uganda Aquatics National League and finishing third at the national championships.
“The competition here has been tough but I am still growing,” Aya said after her races in Nairobi. “I’m happy with how things are going back in Uganda. I put in the work and I am winning.”
Aya’s mother, Mackenzie Adams, plays a big role in her success. A former basketball and American football player, Mackenzie now serves as Aya’s coach and mentor. She shared how proud she felt watching her daughter’s dedication. “Aya never stops. I asked if she was sure she wanted to swim in all those races, and she said yes. Even if she was in the first heat, first lane, she told me she would still swim,” Mackenzie said with a laugh.
Mackenzie also emphasized their pride in representing Somalia. “It could have been easier for Aya to pick Uganda to represent, but sometimes the harder path is better,” she said. “Aya is a Somali national and wants to represent her country so other Somali kids can see that they can do it too. The Somali Aquatics Federation exists, but it’s not in the best shape now. We hope to help rebuild it and move things in the right direction.”
Aya dreams of one day competing at the Olympic Games — a goal inspired by the swimmers she watched on television as a child. Her passion for the sport shines through everything she does. “I love water and I find it peaceful,” she said. “I try to play basketball too, but I love swimming more. I decided I wanted to go to the Olympics one day.”
For Aya and her family, her achievements are not only about medals or records but about pride and hope for Somalia’s sporting future. “She fills me with pride,” Mackenzie said. “My father was a very proud Somali and gave her his name Olleh. May he continue to rest but also celebrate on the other side.”