MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – Every day, thousands of people visit Liido Beach in the Abdiaziz district of Mogadishu for leisure and relaxation.
Visitors come from both within and outside the city, with the majority being young people eager to spend time by the seaside, despite occasional security risks.
On August 2, 2024, a terrorist bombing at Liido Beach killed at least 37 civilians and injured 247 others when an explosion tore through a popular beachside restaurant.
The attack was part of a series of assaults carried out by Al-Shabaab on hotels along the beach, where young people gather, particularly on weekends.
However, these attacks have not deterred the public from enjoying the beach.
Mohamed Codey, one of the youths relaxing at the shore, told Kaab TV that he enjoys the peaceful atmosphere of the beach and swimming in the ocean.
“I love coming to the beach all the time. The atmosphere is calm, and we just have fun,” he said.
Abdifatah Mahamud Aden, whom we met at the beach wearing sportswear featuring the blue Somali flag, said that spending time at the beach makes him appreciate the beauty and richness of Somalia’s coastline.
A Business Opportunity
“People come to the beach every day. We enjoy it. Women stay until 2:00 AM, and there are no security concerns. I tell people: appreciate your own beach! Many Somalis risk their lives migrating to Yemen, but this place is far more beautiful,” Abdifatah said.
Liido Beach is not just a place for relaxation—it also offers entertainment for young people, such as football matches played on the sand when the tide recedes.
Moreover, it has become an economic opportunity for many creative entrepreneurs, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
Faadumo Ali Cilmi has built a small business at the beach, running a tea shop.
She also rents out life jackets to swimmers, although no dedicated lifeguards are available around the clock.
“I support my children through this business. I send them to school, and I have no complaints,” said Faadumo, who is sometimes assisted by her children when they return from school.
Similarly, Cali, a boat rental operator, said he continued working even after terrorist attacks occurred.
“Young people keep coming to us. It’s like a bus station. We rent boats for $2, $3, and so on. It’s a good market,” Cali said.
Liido Beach remains a cherished retreat for Mogadishu residents seeking a peaceful escape from daily hardships, despite occasionally being targeted by terrorist attacks.
The resilience of the people of Mogadishu clearly shows their refusal to allow extremist groups to deprive them of their right to a normal life, leisure, and joy.