Mogadishu: City Report
The Heritage Institute for Policy Studies, in partnership with the University of Manchester, co-published the “Mogadishu: City Report.” This report is part of the African Cities Research Consortium (ACRC) and examines Mogadishu’s urban development challenges through six comprehensive studies: Political Settlement, City Systems, and four key domains—land and connectivity, informal settlements, safety and security, and youth and capability development. The report analyzes and identifies critical developmental issues in Mogadishu, highlighting anticipated challenges in addressing them equitably and sustainably, both environmentally and fiscally. Key issues include the undefined security structure of the city, the prevalence of youth gangs, and the political economy of public service privatization. The report suggests viable solutions, taking into account obstacles such as contested governance, security concerns, urban infrastructure deficits, planning failures, and the taxation system. The authors advocate for a holistic approach to urban development, considering both formal and informal practices.