By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Mogadishu (Dawan), July 24, 2026 – The Banadir Regional Administration has warned that illegally constructed sewage pits are threatening Mogadishu's groundwater, public health and environment.
Banadir’s Director of Water and Environment Department, Mahad Baraawe, told Somali National Television that the administration would not allow large buildings and multi-storey residential properties to construct sewage facilities that do not comply with environmental protection standards.
The director stated that no individual or business is permitted to dig a sewage pit without first obtaining official approval from the administration. He said any pit constructed without authorisation would be considered illegal and that action would be taken against those responsible for digging or using it.
He also said the administration would inspect both existing sewage pits and those currently under construction to determine whether they pose a threat to groundwater and the health of residents.
“No sewage pit can be dug without authorisation from the Banadir Regional Administration. Both previously constructed pits and those currently being dug will be inspected, and anyone found misusing them will be held accountable,” the director said.
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Baraawe said there were homes and other buildings suspected of having illegal sewage pits that allow waste to seep underground. He warned business owners and property owners to refrain from such practices.
The director said a small sewage pit is not sufficient for a multi-storey building occupied by hundreds of people. He added that some pits are dug too deep, allowing sewage to contaminate the water and endanger resident's health.
He also noted that companies and vehicles are available to collect and transport sewage and other waste. He urged residents and business owners to use the proper systems established for sewage and waste management.
The director concluded by saying that the administration was preparing water-management and environmental regulations that would strengthen the protection of groundwater, public health and the environment across the Banadir region.