A new wave of forced evictions and illegal land grabbing is devastating communities across Mogadishu, displacing thousands of residents — many of them women and children — and exposing deep corruption within local political and security structures.
Residents from the Hawiye clans, particularly Habargidir, Abgaal, and Murusade, say their homes have been demolished without court orders or compensation. Armed men, often escorted by government vehicles, have been accused of clearing land in prime neighborhoods for private investors and politically connected businessmen.
Witnesses told SunaTimes that bulldozers arrived before dawn in several districts, including Hodan, Kahda, and Hamarweyne, leveling homes while families were still inside.
"They told us we had no right to be here,” said a tearful mother of four, standing beside the rubble of what was once her home. "We lost everything overnight.”
Local rights organizations say the situation amounts to a humanitarian emergency, as hundreds of families now live in makeshift camps without access to clean water or shelter.
Analysts say the crisis highlights a growing culture of impunity.
"The same people entrusted with protecting public property — politicians, business elites, and security officials — are directly involved in grabbing land,” said one human rights advocate.
Community elders and religious leaders have been criticized for their silence, as public anger mounts over the widespread abuse of power.
Observers warn that the unchecked land seizures could trigger serious social unrest if left unresolved.
"Those who steal land today may face justice tomorrow,” said a Mogadishu-based lawyer. "History does not forget.”
As government institutions remain silent, victims are calling on Somalia’s President and Prime Minister to intervene immediately, investigate the perpetrators, and restore justice for the displaced families.
For now, the victims — mostly women, widows, and orphans — endure their suffering with patience and faith, hoping their cries will not go unheard.
By Dahir Alasow | SunaTimes Investigative Desk
Photo Caption:
Somali women and children stand amid the ruins of their demolished homes in Mogadishu, as land grabbing and forced evictions intensify across the capital.
Somalia: Land Grabbing Crisis Deepens in Mogadishu as Women and Children Bear the Brunt
A new wave of forced evictions and illegal land grabbing is devastating communities across Mogadishu, displacing thousands of residents — many of them women and children — and exposing deep corruption within local political and security s