By Dawan Africa - Reporter
Mogadishu, the capital city of Somalia, thrives at night with bustling streets and open businesses, giving a unique and relaxed atmosphere for residents after a day of work. It’s a situation that hasn’t been experienced before.
Access to products from renowned global companies, improved security, and booming business opportunities have encouraged many members of the diaspora to return home and invest in their country.
“This is a unique situation that can’t be seen in even European countries. Business in Mogadishu are open for 24-hour. There is a fear the is portrayed by the media, but thanks God, there is nothing like that. There is no problem here,” said Zakaria Mohamed Shiiqey who was shopping at one of Mogadishu’s modern supermarkets.
This transformation, driven by the successful importation of international brands and improved security measures in the city, has promoted a thriving 24-hour business cycle.
“I first arrived in Mogadishu in 2019 with the intention of a temporary stay and had plans to go back. However, I reconsidered my decision after witnessing the transformation of the city and the entire country, particularly in Mogadishu, where you can now find everything,” said Ahlam Abdullahi from Saudi Arabia.
“I lived in Turkey and decided to relocate to my country because the current situation is very promising. We’ve experienced hardships, but now we’re making progress and have no need to seek refuge in European countries or rely on external governments,” said Fartun Shuute who relocated from Turkey.
The huge transformation in the business landscape and markets have attracted the locals and the diaspora who acknowledged the convenience of the modern markets that have emerged, allowing them to find everything they need in one place.
“I remember when we had small shops (in the city), but now we have big supermarkets. The media used to show us explosions only, but now, Alhamdulillah, there is a great transformation in the country,” Amal Ahmed from Norway said.
In Mogadishu, not only is there competition for exceptional customer service between supermarkets, but also for extended operating hours.
Juba Hypermarket operates 24 hours, while Midnimo and Hayat Supermarkets offer 18-hour services. Baraka Hypermarket, an affiliate of Juba, maintains an impressive 24-hour schedule.
“The country’s ongoing development and transformation has motivated us, the business owners, to invest in our country. We have decided to create markets similar to the ones in Europe and provide the same services our Diaspora used to get when they were living abroad,” said Hussein Dahir Shirwa’a, Manager at Baraka and Juba Hypermarkets.
Mogadishu’s nightlife transformation has not only boosted supermarkets and major businesses, but also created opportunities for small street vendors.
As midnight approaches in Mogadishu, young entrepreneurs serve customers, with dozens lining up for their services.
Behind these thriving businesses lies more than just profit-seeking ambition; it’s about promoting the living standards of the community and providing global-standard quality and services.
“In Mogadishu, there are very few places where you can find all your necessary things during the late hours of the night. Many young people tend to stay up late and require many things, so they visit the supermarkets that remain open until the late hours,” Aadi Abdikadir, a young entrepreneur who grew up in Saudi Arabia.
As security conditions continuously improve, daily life takes on a two-fold rhythm: one devoted to work and the other to leisure, family, and shopping.
Mogadishu’s transformation into a lively city with a bustling nightlife shows resilience and an unwavering government’s efforts to improve the security of the city.
Beyond the shiny shops and always-open supermarkets, you’ll find a city that’s moving away from the shadows of its past. It’s open to everyone who wants to feel its potential and hope for a better future.
