Mogadishu: city report

This report examines Mogadishu’s urban development challenges through 6 studies.

• From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• Published: 15 April 2025

• Country: Somalia
• Document Type: Working Paper
• Theme: Governance and Conflict
• First published: 8 January 2024
• Authors: Elmi, Afyare A. and Ali, Faisal N.

Abstract

Mogadishu, the capital and largest city of Somalia, has an estimated population of about 2 million and faces numerous challenges. This report explores the intersections of political settlements, city systems and 4 key domains: land and connectivity, informal settlements, safety and security, and youth capability development. 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.

This paper is part of the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC) programme.

Citation

Elmi AA and others. ‘Mogadishu: city report’ ACRC Working Paper 2024-20, African Cities Research Consortium, The University of Manchester 2024

Links

Mogadishu: city report (PDF, 1496 KB)

Published 15 April 2025