Understand

Step into the rich history of Mogadishu, once known as "The White Pearl of the Indian Ocean." This city has endured the ravages of civil war, leaving deep scars etched into its streets. In the early 1990s, Mogadishu witnessed devastating destruction, but since the mid-2010s, substantial efforts have been made for reconstruction and revitalization. Travel back in time to July 1989, when the city experienced its first eruption of serious violence. The following year witnessed Mogadishu plunged into a war zone as various factions fought to overthrow President Barre's regime. After Barre's ousting in 1991, power struggles between secular warlords and Islamist groups intensified, each vying for control over the city. In 2006, a significant turn took place as the Islamic Courts Union (ICU) emerged and became the first Somali faction to consolidate control over Mogadishu in years. However, this triumph was short-lived. Ethiopian forces entered the city the same year, aiming to displace the ICU and establish the Western-backed Transitional Federal Government. This intervention sparked a brutal insurgency and eventually led to an Ethiopian withdrawal in 2009. During this tumultuous period, the extremist Islamist group al-Shabaab, formerly the youth wing of the ICU, gained strength and gradually seized control over much of Mogadishu, leaving the government's influence restricted to a few small areas. Fortunately, in August 2011, a joint counter-offensive, supported by the African Union, successfully expelled the militants from the city. Today, Mogadishu experiences an end to open warfare, although occasional bombings and shootings are still reported. The city faces challenges due to the influx of refugees, placing strain on the limited operational government offices. While other regions of the country, such as Somaliland and Puntland, have remained relatively stable, violent attacks on foreign targets have occurred in the past. Mogadishu's journey towards recovery continues, and it remains an intriguing destination for those seeking to understand its complex history and witness its resilience.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dish: XawaashkiyaadXawaashkiyaad, also known as xalwo or halwo, is a traditional Somali sweet made from peanuts, sesame seeds, and butter. It's often served during special occasions and as a snack. The mixture is cooked until it forms a sticky, caramelized consistency before being molded into small balls or other shapes. Xawaashkiyaad can be found at local markets, festivals, and grocery stores in Somalia.

Dish: aspPasteet is a popular Somali flatbread made from a mix of wheat and barley flour. It's a staple in Somali cuisine, commonly eaten alongside saucy dishes as a vehicle for flavorsome toppings. Pasteet has a soft, porous texture that easily absorbs the flavors of accompanying meals, making it a versatile and essential part of Somali dining.

Dish: 9Sambusa is a savory, pastry-based snack that's immensely popular in Somalia. The dish is similar to samosas, filled with a mix of seasoned meats, vegetables, and spices, then deep-fried to achieve a crispy, golden brown crust. Sambusa comes in a triangular shape, with the filling typically consisting of potatoes, onions, chickpeas, lentils, or minced meat. They're sold at street vendors, markets, and cafes throughout the country, often enjoyed as a quick snack or appetizer.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing