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MOGADISHU City report

Abstract

Mogadishu, the capital and largest city of Somalia, has an estimated population of about 2 million and faces numerous challenges. This report is part of the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC), and it examines Mogadishu’s urban development challenges through six comprehensive studies. It explores
the intersections of political settlements, city systems and four key domains: land and connectivity, informal settlements, safety and security, and youth capability development. The findings highlight political complexities, governance issues and systemic patterns affecting urban growth. Key challenges include land disputes, poor infrastructure, informal settlement dynamics, security threats from gangs and al-Shabaab, and youth unemployment and political underrepresentation. The report identifies
crosscutting themes that hinder development and suggests potential reforms. Overall, it provides an in-depth understanding of Mogadishu’s complex issues and proposes interventions for future urban development.

Keywords

Political settlement city systems informal settlement gatekeeper system youth gangs reforms

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