 = Mogadishu = 
 
 Mogadishu ( / <unk> / ; Somali : <unk> ; Arabic : <unk> <unk> ) , known locally as Hamar , is the capital and most populous city of Somalia . Located in the coastal Banaadir region on the Indian Ocean , the city has served as an important port for millennia . As of 2015 , it had a population of 2 @,@ 120 @,@ 000 residents . 
 Tradition and old records assert that southern Somalia , including the Mogadishu area , was historically inhabited by hunter @-@ gatherers . These were later joined by Cushitic <unk> @-@ <unk> , who would go on to establish local <unk> . During its medieval Golden Age , Mogadishu was ruled by the Muzaffar dynasty , a vassal of the Ajuran Sultanate . It subsequently fell under the control of an assortment of local <unk> and polities , most notably the Geledi Sultanate . The city later became the capital of Italian Somaliland ( 1889 @-@ 1936 ) in the colonial period . After the Somali Republic became independent in 1960 , Mogadishu became known and promoted as the White Pearl of the Indian Ocean . After the ousting of the Siad Barre regime in 1991 and the ensuing civil war , various militias fought for control of the city , later to be replaced by the Islamic Courts Union in the mid @-@ 2000s . The ICU thereafter splintered into more radical groups , notably Al @-@ Shabaab , which fought the Transitional Federal Government ( 2004 @-@ 2012 ) and its AMISOM allies . With a change in administration in late 2010 , government troops and their military partners had succeeded in forcing out Al @-@ Shabaab by August 2011 . Mogadishu has subsequently experienced a period of intense reconstruction . 
 As Somalia 's capital city , many important national institutions are based in Mogadishu . It is the seat of the Federal Government of Somalia established in August 2012 , with the Somalia Federal Parliament serving as the government 's legislative branch . Yusuf Hussein <unk> has been the Mayor of Mogadishu since October 2015 . Villa Somalia is the official residential palace and principal workplace of the President of Somalia , Hassan Sheikh Mohamud . In May 2012 , the First Somali Bank was established in the capital , which organized Mogadishu 's first ever Technology , Entertainment , Design ( TEDx ) conference . The establishment of a local construction yard has also galvanized the city 's real @-@ estate sector . Arba 'a Rukun Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic places of worship in the capital , built circa 667 ( 1268 / 9 AD ) . The Mosque of Islamic <unk> in Mogadishu is the largest masjid in the Horn region . Mogadishu Cathedral was built in 1928 by the colonial authorities in Italian Somaliland in a Norman Gothic style , and served as the traditional seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mogadiscio . The National Museum of Somalia is based in Mogadishu and holds many culturally important artefacts . The National Library of Somalia is undergoing a $ 1 million Somali federal government funded renovation , including a new library complex . 
 Mogadishu is home to a number of scholastic and media institutions . As part of the municipality 's urban renewal program , 100 schools across the capital are scheduled to be refurbished and reopened . The Somali National University ( SNU ) was established in the 1950s , and professors from the university later founded the non @-@ governmental Mogadishu University ( MU ) . Benadir University ( BU ) was established in 2002 with the intention of training doctors . Various national sporting bodies have their headquarters in Mogadishu , including the Somali Football Federation and the Somali Olympic Committee . Mogadishu Stadium was constructed in 1978 during the Siad Barre administration , with the assistance of Chinese engineers . It hosts football matches with teams from the Somalia League and the Somalia Cup . Additionally , the Port of Mogadishu serves as a major national seaport and is the largest harbour in Somalia . Mogadishu International Airport , the capital 's main airport , is the hub of the relaunched national carrier Somali Airlines . 
 
 = = Etymology = = 
 
 The origins of the name Mogadishu ( <unk> ) has many theories but it is most likely derived from a morphology of the Persian words Maq 'ad @-@ i @-@ Shah For a long time , it was thought to be derived from the Persian Maq 'ad @-@ i @-@ Shah ( <unk> <unk> ) , which means " the seat of the Shah " ( a reflection of the city 's early Persian influence ) . It is known locally as Xamar ( English : Hamar ) . 
 
 = = History = = 
 
 
 = = = Early history = = = 
 
 Tradition and old records assert that southern Somalia , including the Mogadishu area , was inhabited very early by hunter @-@ gatherers of <unk> descent . Although most of these early inhabitants are believed to have been either overwhelmed , driven away or , in some cases , assimilated by later migrants to the area , physical traces of their occupation survive in certain ethnic minority groups inhabiting modern @-@ day <unk> and other parts of the south . The latter descendants include <unk> populations such as the <unk> , <unk> , the <unk> @-@ <unk> , and especially the <unk> @-@ <unk> . By the time of the arrival of peoples from the Cushitic <unk> ( <unk> and <unk> ) clan confederacy , who would go on to establish a local aristocracy , other Cushitic groups affiliated with the <unk> ( <unk> ) and <unk> ( Ma <unk> ) had already formed settlements of their own in the sub @-@ region . 
 The ancient city of <unk> is believed to have been the predecessor state of Mogadishu . It is mentioned in the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea , a Greek travel document dating from the first century AD , as one of a series of commercial ports on the Somali <unk> . According to the Periplus , maritime trade already connected peoples in the Mogadishu area with other communities along the Indian Ocean coast . 
 The Sultanate of Mogadishu later developed with the immigration of <unk> Arabs , a community whose earliest presence dates back to the 9th or 10th century . This evolved into the Muzaffar dynasty , a joint Somali @-@ Arab federation of rulers , and Mogadishu became closely linked with the powerful Somali Ajuran Sultanate . Following his visit to the city , the 12th century Syrian historian <unk> al @-@ <unk> wrote that it was inhabited by dark @-@ skinned <unk> , the ancestors of the modern <unk> . 
 For many years , Mogadishu stood as the pre @-@ eminent city in the <unk> @-@ ul @-@ <unk> ( <unk> <unk> ) , meaning " Land of the <unk> , " which was the medieval Arabic term for the Somali coast . By the time of the Moroccan traveller Ibn <unk> 's appearance on the Somali coast in 1331 , the city was at the zenith of its prosperity . He described Mogadishu as " an exceedingly large city " with many rich merchants , which was famous for the high quality fabric that it exported to destinations including Egypt . <unk> added that the city was ruled by a Somali Sultan , Abu <unk> ibn <unk> ' Umar , who was originally from Barbara in northern Somalia and spoke both Somali ( referred to by <unk> as <unk> , the Benadir dialect of Somali ) and Arabic with equal fluency . The Sultan also had a retinue of <unk> ( ministers ) , legal experts , commanders , royal <unk> , and other officials at his service . 
 Additionally , there appears to have been a strong Persian presence in both Mogadishu and <unk> for a time . A Shi 'a influence can still be seen in some areas , as in the southern Somalia veneration of Fatimah , the Prophet Muhammad 's daughter . This fact is also reflected in the etymology of the city 's name , which derives from the Persian Maq 'ad @-@ i @-@ Shah ( <unk> <unk> ) and means " the seat of the Shah . " 
 The Portuguese would subsequently attempt to occupy the city , but never managed to take it . In his journal of an expedition to the region in <unk> @-@ <unk> , the explorer João de <unk> , who accompanied Vasco da Gama on the voyage , wrote that <unk> ( Mogadishu ) was controlled by Moors . A big town surrounded by four towers , it had houses several <unk> high and large palaces in its center . De <unk> and his men bombarded the city before continuing southwards along the seaboard . The <unk> Somali , however , were later successful in defeating the Ajuran State and bringing about the end of Muzaffar rule . 
 
 = = = <unk> ( 1800s – 1900s ) = = = 
 
 By 1892 , Mogadishu was under the joint control of the Somali Sultanate of the Geledi and the <unk> Sultanate of Zanzibar . The Geledi Sultans were at the height of their power . They dominated the southern ivory trade , and also held sway over the Jubba and Shebelle valleys in the hinterland . The <unk> Sultans ' authority in Mogadishu , however , was largely nominal . When <unk> <unk> bin <unk> of Oman sought to build a fort in the city , he was thus <unk> to request permission from Sultan Ahmed Yusuf of Geledi . This Fort of <unk> was eventually constructed in 1870 . The Sultan of Zanzibar later leased and then sold the infrastructure that he had built to the Italians , but not the land itself , which was Somali owned . 
 
 = = = Italian Somaliland ( late 1800s @-@ 1960 ) = = = 
 
 In 1905 , Italy made Mogadishu the capital of the newly established Italian Somaliland . The Italians subsequently referred to the city as Mogadiscio . After World War I , the surrounding territory came under Italian control with some resistance . 
 Thousands of Italians settled in Mogadishu and founded small manufacturing companies . They also developed some agricultural areas in the south near the capital , such as <unk> and the <unk> <unk> <unk> <unk> ( present @-@ day Jowhar ) . In the 1930s , new buildings and avenues were built . A 114 km ( 71 mi ) narrow @-@ gauge railway was laid from Mogadishu to Jowhar . An <unk> road , the <unk> <unk> , was also constructed and intended to link Mogadishu to <unk> <unk> . 
 In 1940 , the Italo @-@ Somali population numbered 22 @,@ 000 , accounting for over 44 % of the city 's population of 50 @,@ 000 residents . Mogadishu remained the capital of Italian Somaliland throughout the latter polity 's existence . In World War II it was captured by British forces in February 1941 . 
 After World War II Mogadishu was made the capital of the Trust Territory of Somaliland , an Italian administered <unk> political entity under the <unk> mandate , for ten years ( 1950 – 1960 ) . 
 
 = = = Somali Republic ( 1960 – 1990 ) = = = 
 
 British Somaliland became independent on 26 June 1960 as the State of Somaliland , and the Trust Territory of Somalia ( the former Italian Somaliland ) followed suit five days later . On 1 July 1960 , the two territories united to form the Somali Republic , with Mogadishu serving as the nation 's capital . A government was formed by Abdullahi <unk> and other members of the <unk> and protectorate governments , with <unk> Bashir <unk> Yusuf as President of the Somali National Assembly , Aden <unk> <unk> <unk> as President of the Somali Republic , and Abdirashid Ali Shermarke as Prime Minister ( later to become President from 1967 to 1969 ) . On 20 July 1961 and through a popular referendum , the people of Somalia ratified a new constitution , which was first drafted in 1960 . In 1967 , Muhammad <unk> Ibrahim <unk> became Prime Minister , a position to which he was appointed by Shermarke . 
 On 15 October 1969 , while paying a visit to the northern town of Las <unk> , Somalia 's then President Abdirashid Ali Shermarke was assassinated by one of his own <unk> . His assassination was quickly followed by a military coup d 'état on 21 October 1969 ( the day after his funeral ) , in which the Somali Army seized power without encountering armed opposition — essentially a bloodless takeover . The putsch was spearheaded by Major General Mohamed Siad Barre , who at the time commanded the army . 
 Alongside Barre , the Supreme Revolutionary Council ( SRC ) that assumed power after President <unk> 's assassination was led by Lieutenant Colonel Salaad <unk> <unk> and Chief of Police <unk> <unk> . <unk> officially held the title of " Father of the Revolution , " and Barre shortly afterwards became the head of the SRC . The SRC subsequently renamed the country the Somali Democratic Republic , arrested members of the former civilian government , banned political parties , dissolved the parliament and the Supreme Court , and suspended the constitution . 
 The revolutionary army established various large @-@ scale public works programmes , including the Mogadishu Stadium . In addition to a <unk> programme of industry and land , the Mogadishu @-@ based new regime 's foreign policy placed an emphasis on Somalia 's traditional and religious links with the Arab world , eventually joining the Arab League in 1974 . 
 After fallout from the unsuccessful <unk> campaign of the late 1970s , the Barre administration began arresting government and military officials under suspicion of participation in the abortive 1978 coup d 'état . Most of the people who had allegedly helped plot the putsch were summarily executed . However , several officials managed to escape abroad and started to form the first of various <unk> groups dedicated to ousting Barre 's regime by force . 
 
 = = = Civil war = = = 
 
 By the late 1980s , Barre 's regime had become increasingly unpopular . The authorities became ever more totalitarian , and resistance movements , encouraged by Ethiopia 's communist <unk> administration , <unk> up across the country . This eventually led in 1991 to the outbreak of the civil war , the toppling of Barre 's government , and the disbandment of the Somali National Army . Many of the opposition groups subsequently began competing for influence in the power vacuum that followed the <unk> of Barre 's regime . Armed factions led by United Somali Congress commanders General Mohamed Farah Aidid and Ali Mahdi Mohamed , in particular , clashed as each sought to exert authority over the capital . 
 UN Security Council Resolution 733 and UN Security Council Resolution 746 led to the creation of UNOSOM I , the first stabilization mission in Somalia after the dissolution of the central government . United Nations Security Council Resolution 794 was unanimously passed on 3 December 1992 , which approved a coalition of United Nations peacekeepers led by the United States . Forming the Unified Task Force ( <unk> ) , the alliance was tasked with assuring security until humanitarian efforts were transferred to the UN . Landing in 1993 , the UN peacekeeping coalition started the two @-@ year United Nations Operation in Somalia II ( UNOSOM II ) primarily in the south . 
 Some of the militias that were then competing for power interpreted the UN troops ' presence as a threat to their <unk> . Consequently , several gun battles took place in Mogadishu between local <unk> and peacekeepers . Among these was the Battle of Mogadishu of 1993 , a successful attempt by US troops to apprehend two high @-@ ranking lieutenants of faction leader Aidid . The UN soldiers eventually withdrew altogether from the country on 3 March 1995 , having incurred more significant casualties . 
 In 2006 , the Islamic Courts Union ( ICU ) , an Islamist organization , assumed control of much of the southern part of the country and promptly imposed <unk> 'a law . The new Transitional Federal Government ( TFG ) , established two years earlier , sought to re @-@ establish its authority . With the assistance of Ethiopian troops , AMISOM peacekeepers and air support by the United States , it managed to drive out the rival ICU and solidify its rule . On 8 January 2007 , as the Battle of Ras <unk> raged , TFG President and founder Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed , a former colonel in the Somali Army , entered Mogadishu for the first time since being elected to office . The government then relocated to Villa Somalia in Mogadishu from its interim location in <unk> , marking the first time since the fall of the Barre regime in 1991 that the federal government controlled most of the country . 
 Following this defeat , the Islamic Courts Union splintered into several different factions . Some of the more radical elements , including Al @-@ Shabaab , regrouped to continue their insurgency against the TFG and oppose the Ethiopian military 's presence in Somalia . Throughout 2007 and 2008 , Al @-@ Shabaab scored military victories , seizing control of key towns and ports in both central and southern Somalia . At the end of 2008 , the group had captured <unk> but not Mogadishu . By January 2009 , Al @-@ Shabaab and other militias had managed to force the Ethiopian troops to retreat , leaving behind an under @-@ equipped African Union peacekeeping force to assist the Transitional Federal Government 's troops . 
 Between 31 May and 9 June 2008 , representatives of Somalia 's federal government and the moderate Alliance for the Re @-@ liberation of Somalia ( ARS ) group of Islamist rebels participated in peace talks in Djibouti brokered by the UN . The conference ended with a signed agreement calling for the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops in exchange for the cessation of armed confrontation . Parliament was subsequently expanded to 550 seats to accommodate ARS members , which then elected a new president . With the help of a small team of African Union troops , the coalition government also began a counteroffensive in February 2009 to retake control of the southern half of the country . To solidify its control of southern Somalia , the TFG formed an alliance with the Islamic Courts Union , other members of the Alliance for the Re @-@ liberation of Somalia , and <unk> <unk> <unk> 'a , a moderate Sufi militia . 
 In November 2010 , a new <unk> government was elected to office , which enacted numerous reforms , especially in the security sector . By August 2011 , the new administration and its AMISOM allies had managed to capture all of Mogadishu from the Al @-@ Shabaab militants . Mogadishu has subsequently experienced a period of intense reconstruction spearheaded by the Somali diaspora , the municipal authorities , and Turkey , a historic ally of Somalia . 
 
 = = = Reconstruction = = = 
 
 In August 2011 , militant group al Shabaab made a strategic withdrawal from Mogadishu to return to hit @-@ and @-@ run tactics . Mayor Mohamed Nur recognized the opportunity as critical to stabilizing and rebuilding the city by any means necessary . Working closely with the UN , USAID , and DRC , Nur 's administration also started large @-@ scale rehabilitation of roads and general infrastructure , with residents closely <unk> with the civil and police authorities to <unk> up on security . Nur recognized the opportunity to transform Mogadishu although resources were limited . Working closely with urban strategist Mitchell <unk> , the Benadir government sought to design and deploy a data @-@ driven approach to post @-@ war reconstruction . 
 With the passing of a new Constitution in 2012 and the subsequent election of an inaugural President in the new Federal Government , the <unk> continued to oversee Mogadishu 's ongoing post @-@ conflict reconstruction . Building off the initial pilot , the Benadir administration launched a city @-@ wide street naming , house numbering and postal codes project . Officially called the House Numbering and Post Code System , it is a joint initiative of the municipal authorities and Somali business community representatives . According to Nur , the initiative also aims to help the authorities firm up on security and resolve housing ownership disputes . As of 2016 , there are postal codes for 176 localities and sub @-@ localities , including the Mogadishu metropolitan area . 
 
 = = Geography = = 
 
 Mogadishu is situated on the Indian Ocean coast of the Horn of Africa , in the Banaadir administrative region ( <unk> ) in southeastern Somalia . The region itself is <unk> with the city and is much smaller than the historical province of Benadir . The city is administratively divided into the districts of <unk> , <unk> , <unk> , <unk> , Hamar @-@ <unk> , Hamar @-@ <unk> , <unk> , <unk> , <unk> @-@ <unk> , Karan , <unk> , <unk> , <unk> , <unk> , <unk> and <unk> . Features of the city include the <unk> old town , the <unk> Market , and <unk> Beach . The sandy beaches of Mogadishu have vibrant coral reefs , and are prime real estate for the first tourist resorts in many years . 
 The Shebelle River ( <unk> Shabelle ) rises in central Ethiopia and comes within 30 kilometers ( 19 mi ) of the Indian Ocean near Mogadishu before turning southwestward . Usually dry during February and March , the river provides water essential for the cultivation of sugarcane , cotton , and <unk> . 
 
 = = = Climate = = = 
 
 For a city situated so near the equator , Mogadishu has a relatively dry climate . It is classified as hot and semi @-@ arid ( Köppen climate classification <unk> ) , as with much of southeastern Somalia . By contrast , towns in northern Somalia generally have a hot arid climate ( Köppen <unk> ) . 
 Mogadishu is located in or near the tropical <unk> woodland <unk> of the <unk> global <unk> scheme . The mean temperature in the city year round is 27 ° C , with an average maximum of 30 ° C and an average minimum of 24 ° C. Mean temperature readings per month vary by 3 ° C ( 5 @.@ 4 ° F ) , corresponding with a <unk> and subtype truly <unk> <unk> type . Precipitation per year averages <unk> @.@ 2 millimetres ( 16 @.@ 9 in ) . There are 47 wet days annually , which are associated with a 12 % daily probability of rainfall . The city has an average of 3 @,@ <unk> hours of sunshine per year , with 8 @.@ 4 hours of sunlight per day . Mean daylight hours and minutes per day are <unk> 24 ' . The annual percentage of sunny versus cloudy daylight hours is 70 and 30 , respectively . Average sun altitude at solar noon on the 21st day of the month is 75 . 
 
 = = Government = = 
 
 
 = = = Federal = = = 
 
 The Transitional Federal Government ( TFG ) was the internationally recognized central government of Somalia between 2004 and 2012 . Based in Mogadishu , it constituted the executive branch of government . 
 The Federal Government of Somalia was established on 20 August 2012 , concurrent with the end of the TFG 's interim mandate . It represents the first permanent central government in the country since the start of the civil war . The Federal Parliament of Somalia serves as the government 's legislative branch . 
 
 = = = Municipal = = = 
 
 Mogadishu 's municipal government is currently led by Yusuf Hussein <unk> , who succeeded Mayor Hassan Mohamed Hussein <unk> , a former military court chairman . Among the administration 's development initiatives are a US $ 100 million urban renewal project , the creation of garbage disposal and <unk> plants , the launch of a city @-@ wide <unk> project , the creation of asphalt and cement plants , rehabilitation of the Town Hall and parliament buildings , reconstruction of the former Defence Ministry offices , reconstruction of <unk> facilities , rehabilitation and construction of health facilities , establishment of a Police Training Center and a permanent base in <unk> for the new Somali Armed Forces , rebuilding of the Somali Postal Service headquarters , and rehabilitation of public playgrounds in several districts . In January 2014 , the Benadir administration launched the House Numbering and Post Code System . It also began distributing national identity cards in March of the same year . In addition , the municipal authorities started renovating important local government centers in September 2014 , including the capital 's former <unk> <unk> compound . In January 2015 , the Benadir administration also opened a new Health & Safety Office to supervise health and safety practices in the city , and launched a municipal <unk> campaign ahead of various international conferences that are slated to be held there . 
 In March 2015 , the Benadir administration completed the <unk> project in conjunction with the EU and <unk> . The 3 @.@ 5 million <unk> initiative lasted three and a half years , and saw the establishment in Mogadishu of a new sustainable waste collection system , a Technical Training Centre , water quality testing laboratories , <unk> access to clean drinking water , improved employment and livelihood opportunities in the low @-@ cost fuel production sector , strengthened skills training and regulation in the construction sector , and laboratories for the testing of construction material quality . 
 
 = = = <unk> missions = = = 
 
 A number of countries maintain foreign embassies and <unk> in Mogadishu . As of January 2014 , these diplomatic missions include the embassies of Djibouti , Ethiopia , Sudan , Libya , <unk> , Saudi Arabia , Turkey , Iran , Uganda , Nigeria , the United Kingdom , Japan , China , and <unk> . <unk> that are scheduled to reopen in the city include those of Egypt , the United Arab Emirates , Italy and South Korea . 
 In May 2015 , in recognition of the <unk> progress made in Somalia and its return to effective governance , US Secretary of State John Kerry announced a preliminary plan to reestablish the US embassy in Mogadishu . He indicated that although there was no set timetable for the premises ' relaunch , the US government had immediately begun upgrading its diplomatic representation in the country . President of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali <unk> also presented to Kerry the real estate deed for land reserved for the new US embassy compound . Mohamud concurrently signed an Establishment Agreement with the EU Head of Delegation in Somalia Michele <unk> d ’ <unk> , which facilitates the opening of more embassies in Mogadishu by European Union member states . The EU also announced that it had opened a new EU Delegation office in the city . 
 In February 2014 , Somalia 's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation <unk> <unk> <unk> announced that the federal government was slated to reopen the former Institute of <unk> in Mogadishu . The center historically served as one of the most important national institutions for diplomacy and international relations . <unk> also pledged to reestablish the institute 's diplomacy department , its information and broadcasting department , as well as its library . 
 
 = = Economy = = 
 
 Mogadishu traditionally served as a commercial and financial centre . Before the <unk> of mass @-@ produced cloth from Europe and America , the city 's textiles were <unk> far and wide throughout the interior of the continent , as well as to the Arabian peninsula and as far as the Persian coast . 
 Mogadishu 's economy has grown rapidly since the city 's pacification in mid 2011 . The <unk> processing factory was reopened , as was the local Coca Cola factory , which was also refurbished . In May 2012 , the First Somali Bank was established in the capital , representing the first commercial bank to open in southern Somalia since 1991 . The Somali civil engineer and entrepreneur <unk> <unk> also opened the city 's first dollar store . Additionally , the Historic Central Bank was <unk> , with the <unk> Business Center likewise under construction . 
 The <unk> of Mogadishu 's real estate sector was in part facilitated by the establishment of a local construction yard in November 2012 by the Municipality of Istanbul and the Turkish Red Crescent . With 50 construction trucks and machines imported from Turkey , the yard produces concrete , asphalt and paving stones for building projects . The Istanbul Municipality was also scheduled to bring in 100 specialists to accelerate the construction initiative , which ultimately aims to modernize the capital 's infrastructure and serve it over the long @-@ term . 
 In mid @-@ 2012 , Mogadishu concurrently held its first ever Technology , Entertainment , Design ( TEDx ) conference . The event was organized by the First Somali Bank to showcase improvements in business , development and security to potential Somali and international investors . A second consecutive TEDx <unk> conference was held the following year in the capital , highlighting new enterprises and commercial opportunities , including the establishment of the city 's first dry cleaning business in several years . 
 A number of large firms also have their headquarters in Mogadishu . Among these is the Trans @-@ National Industrial Electricity and Gas Company , an energy conglomerate founded in 2010 that <unk> five major Somali companies from the trade , finance , security and telecommunications sectors . Other firms based in the city include <unk> Telecom , the largest telecommunications company in southern and central Somalia . <unk> is another telecommunications service provider that is centered in the capital . The local Somali Energy Company specializes in the generation , transmission and distribution of electric power to residents and businesses within its service area in Banaadir . Villa and Mansion Architects , an international architectural firm founded by the Somali @-@ British architect Alexander Yusuf , likewise has its regional offices in Mogadishu . Additionally , the International Bank of Somalia , which opened downtown in 2014 , offers Islamic finance and international banking services via a swift code system . The Islamic Insurance Company ( First <unk> and Re @-@ <unk> Insurance Company ) was concurrently established , and is the city 's first full service insurance firm in many years . The Central Bank of Somalia , the national monetary authority , also has its headquarters in Mogadishu . 
 In June 2013 , former Prime Minister Abdi Farah <unk> signed a new foreign investment law . The draft bill was prepared by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry in conjunction with government attorneys . <unk> by the Cabinet , it establishes a secure legal framework for foreign investment in Mogadishu and elsewhere in the country . 
 In October 2014 , the firm Tawakal Money Express ( Tawakal ) also began construction of the seven @-@ storey Tawakal Plaza Mogadishu . The new high rise is slated to be completed by the end of 2015 , and will feature a Tawakal Global Bank customer and financial services center , a large , 338 square meter supermarket , a 46 @-@ room luxury hotel , restaurant and coffee shop facilities , and conference and event halls . In addition , the <unk> <unk> provides major retail service to local <unk> . Open daily until 10 pm , the convenience chain imports most of its products from the United Arab Emirates and China . The Al <unk> firm also launched a major real estate project in January 2015 , <unk> @-@ Salam City . <unk> by the Salaam Somali Bank , the new urban complex includes town houses , apartment flats , a mosque , recreational areas , playgrounds , a supermarket and roads . It is slated to be erected just outside the northern part of the capital , within a 7 kilometer radius of the Industrial Road . 
 
 = = Demographics = = 
 
 Mogadishu is a multi @-@ ethnic city . Its original core population consisted of <unk> <unk> , and later Cushitic , Arab and Persian migrants . The mixture of these various groups produced the <unk> or <unk> Xamar ( “ People of Mogadishu ” ) , a composite population unique to the larger Benadir region . In the colonial period , European expatriates , primarily Italians , would also contribute to the city 's cosmopolitan populace . 
 The main area of <unk> of <unk> ethnic minorities in Somalia has historically been in village enclaves in the south , particularly between the Jubba and Shebelle river valleys as well as the <unk> and Bay regions . Beginning in the 1970s , more <unk> began moving to urban centres such as Mogadishu and <unk> . The displacement caused by the onset of the civil war in the 1990s further increased the number of rural minorities migrating to urban areas . As a consequence of these movements , Mogadishu 's traditional demographic makeup changed significantly over the years . 
 Following a greatly improved security situation in the city in 2012 , many Somali expatriates began returning to Mogadishu for investment opportunities and to take part in the ongoing post @-@ conflict reconstruction process . Through both private efforts and public initiatives like the Somali <unk> Corps , they have participated in the renovation of schools , hospitals , banks and other infrastructure , and have played a leading role in the capital 's recovery . They have also helped to propel the local real estate market . 
 According to <unk> , Mogadishu has a population of around 2 @,@ 120 @,@ 000 residents as of 2015 . It is the <unk> largest city in the world by population size . The urban area occupies 91 square kilometres ( 35 sq mi ) , with a population density of around 23 @,@ 400 inhabitants per square kilometre ( 61 @,@ 000 / sq mi ) . As of September 2014 , the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation is scheduled to launch the first population census for Somalia in over two decades . The <unk> assisted the Ministry in the project , which is slated to be finalized ahead of the planned <unk> and local and national elections in 2016 . 
 
 = = Landmarks = = 
 
 
 = = = Places of worship = = = 
 
 Arba 'a Rukun Mosque is one of the oldest Islamic places of worship in the capital . It was built circa 667 ( 1268 / 9 AD ) , concurrently with the <unk> ad @-@ Din Mosque . Arba 'a Rukun 's <unk> contains an inscription dated from the same year , which commemorates the masjid 's late founder , <unk> ibn <unk> al @-@ <unk> ( <unk> ibn Muhammed ) . 
 The Mosque of Islamic <unk> was constructed in 1987 with financial support from the Saudi <unk> bin Abdul Aziz Al <unk> Foundation . It is the main mosque in the city , and an iconic building in Somali society . With a capacity of up to 10 @,@ 000 worshippers , it is the single largest masjid in the Horn region . In 2015 , the federal authorities completed formal <unk> on the mosque 's infrastructure . The upgrades are part of a larger governmental renovation campaign aimed at all of the <unk> in Mogadishu . To this end , the municipal authority is <unk> the historic Central Mosque , situated downtown . 
 The Mogadishu Cathedral was built in 1928 by the colonial authorities in Italian Somaliland . Known as the " <unk> di Mogadiscio " , it was constructed in a Norman Gothic style , based on the <unk> Cathedral in <unk> , Sicily . The church served as the traditional seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mogadiscio . It later incurred significant damage during the civil war . In April 2013 , after a visit to the site to inspect its condition , the Diocese of Mogadiscio announced plans to <unk> the building . 
 
 = = = Palaces = = = 
 
 Villa Somalia is the official residential palace and principal workplace of the President of Somalia , Hassan Sheikh Mohamud . It sits on high ground that <unk> the city on the Indian Ocean , with access to both the harbour and airport . The Governor 's Palace of Mogadishu was the seat of the governor of Italian Somaliland , and then the administrator of the Trust Territory of Somalia . 
 
 = = = Museums , libraries and theatres = = = 
 
 The National Museum of Somalia was established after independence in 1960 , when the old <unk> Museum was turned into a National Museum . The National Museum was later moved in 1985 , renamed to the <unk> Museum , and converted to a regional museum . After shutting down , the National Museum later reopened . As of January 2014 , it holds many culturally important artefacts , including old coins , <unk> tools , traditional artwork , ancient weaponry and pottery items . 
 The National Library of Somalia was established in 1975 , and came under the responsibility of the Ministry of Education , Culture and Higher Education . In 1983 , it held approximately 7 @,@ 000 books , little in the way of historical and cultural archival material , and was open to the general public . The National Library later closed down in the 1990s . In June 2013 , the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies organized a shipment of 22 @,@ 000 books from the United States to Somalia as part of an initiative to <unk> the library . In December of the year , the Somali authorities officially launched a major project to rebuild the National Library . With <unk> Hassan serving as Director , the $ 1 million federal government funded initiative will see a new library complex built in the capital within six months . In preparation for the relaunch , 60 @,@ 000 additional books from other Arab League states are expected to arrive . 
 The National Theatre of Somalia opened in 1967 as an important cultural landmark in the national capital . It closed down after the start of the civil war in the early 1990s , but reopened in March 2012 after reconstruction . In September 2013 , the Somali federal government and its Chinese counterpart signed an official cooperation agreement in Mogadishu as part of a five @-@ year national recovery plan in Somalia . The pact will see the Chinese authorities reconstruct the National Theatre of Somalia in addition to several other major infrastructural landmarks . 
 
 = = = <unk> = = = 
 
 <unk> Market was created in late 1972 by the Barre administration . It served as an open market for the sale of goods and services , including produce and clothing . After the start of the civil war , the market was controlled by various militant groups , who used it as a base for their operations . Following Mogadishu 's pacification in 2011 , renovations resumed at the market . <unk> were rehabilitated , selling everything from fruit and garments to building materials . As in the rest of the city , <unk> Market 's real estate values have also risen considerably . As of 2013 , the local <unk> firm was renting out a newly constructed warehouse at the market for $ 2 @,@ 000 per month . 
 In February 2014 , the Benadir administration began renovations at the <unk> Market in the Hamar <unk> district . It was one of the largest markets in the city before closing down operations in the early 1990s . In September 2014 , the municipal authorities officially reopened the <unk> to the public , with officials supervising all parts of the market . According to the Benadir Political Affairs Vice Chairman Mohamed <unk> " <unk> " , the facility is now open for business and will compete with other regional markets . 
 
 = = = Institutes = = = 
 
 The Regional Somali Language Academy is an <unk> regulating body for the Somali language in the Horn region . In January 2015 , President of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced that the institute was slated to be finalized in conjunction with the governments of Djibouti and Ethiopia . Among the scheduled projects was the construction of a new headquarters for the Academy in Mogadishu , in recognition of Somalia 's traditional position as the center for the development and promotion of the Somali language . In February 2015 , the foundation stone for the new Regional Somali Language Academy was officially laid at an inauguration ceremony in the city . 
 
 = = = Hotels = = = 
 
 Mogadishu has a number of hotels , most of which were recently constructed . The city 's many returning expatriates , investors and international community workers are among these establishments ' main customers . To meet the growing demand , hotel representatives have also begun participating in international industry conferences , such as the Africa Hotel Investment <unk> . 
 Among the new hotels is the six floor <unk> Palace Hotel . It was built in 2010 and officially opened in 2012 . Situated within a <unk> radius of the Aden Adde International Airport , it has a 70 @-@ room capacity with a 70 % occupancy rate . The hotel expects to host over 1 @,@ 000 visitors by 2015 , for which it plans to construct a larger overall building and conference facilities . A new landslide hotel within the airport itself is also slated to be completed by the end of the year . 
 Other hotels in the city include the <unk> Palace Hotel , <unk> Castle Hotel , <unk> Hotel , Hotel <unk> @-@ <unk> , Oriental Hotel , Hotel <unk> , Hotel <unk> , Peace Hotel , <unk> Guest House , <unk> Hotel , Hotel <unk> , Hotel <unk> , Benadir Hotel , Ambassador Hotel , Kuwait Plaza Hotel , <unk> Hotel <unk> , <unk> Hotel , <unk> <unk> and <unk> Ali Hotel . 
 
 = = Education = = 
 
 Mogadishu is home to a number of scholastic institutions . As part of the government 's urban renewal program , 100 schools across the capital are scheduled to be refurbished and reopened . 
 The Somali National University ( SNU ) was established in the 1950s , during the <unk> period . In 1973 , its programmes and facilities were expanded . The SNU developed over the next 20 years into an expansive institution of higher learning , with 13 departments , 700 staff and over 15 @,@ 000 students . On 14 November 2013 , the Cabinet unanimously approved a federal government plan to reopen the Somali National University , which had been closed down in the early 1990s . The <unk> initiative cost US $ 3 @.@ 6 million , and was completed in August 2014 . 
 Mogadishu University ( MU ) is a non @-@ governmental university that is governed by a Board of Trustees and a University Council . It is the <unk> of a number of professors from the Somali National University as well as other Somali intellectuals . <unk> by the Islamic Development Bank in <unk> , Saudi Arabia , as well as other donor institutions , the university counts hundreds of graduates from its seven faculties , some of whom continue on to pursue Master 's degrees abroad thanks to a scholarship programme . Mogadishu University has established partnerships with several other academic institutions , including the University of Aalborg in Denmark , three universities in Egypt , seven universities in Sudan , the University of Djibouti , and two universities in <unk> . As of 2012 , MU also has accreditation with the Board of the <unk> Organization <unk> . 
 In 1999 , the Somali Institute of Management and Administration ( <unk> ) was co @-@ established in Mogadishu by incumbent President of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud . The institution subsequently grew into the <unk> University , with Mohamud acting as dean until 2010 . It offers a range of undergraduate courses in various fields , including economics , statistics , business , <unk> , technology , computer science , health sciences , education , law and public administration . 
 Benadir University ( BU ) was established in 2002 with the intention of training doctors . It has since expanded into other fields . Another tertiary institution in the city is the <unk> University of Science and Technology . The Turkish <unk> School was also established , with the Mogadishu Polytechnic Institute and Shabelle University campus likewise undergoing renovations . Additionally , a New Islamic University campus is being built . In April 2014 , Prime Minister <unk> Sheikh Ahmed also laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of the former meteorological school in Mogadishu . A new national Aviation Training Academy is likewise being built at the Aden Adde International Airport . 
 Other tertiary institutions in the capital include City University . It was established in 2012 with the aim of providing quality instruction and research . The college is staffed by an accredited and experienced master 's @-@ level faculty , and governed by a Board of Trustees consisting of academics and prominent entrepreneurs . City University 's <unk> features an advanced curriculum and foundation programs in English . Its campus includes physical and digital libraries , as well as IT and scientific laboratories . The university is a member of the Somali Research and Educational Network , and is authorized as a degree granting institution by the national Ministry of Education Directorate of Higher Education and Culture . 
 
 = = Sport = = 
 
 Mogadishu Stadium was constructed in 1978 during the Barre administration , with the assistance of Chinese engineers . The facility was mainly used for hosting sporting activities , such as the Somalia Cup and for football matches with teams from the Somalia League . Presidential addresses and political rallies , among other events , were also held there . In September 2013 , the Somali federal government and its Chinese counterpart signed an official cooperation agreement in Mogadishu as part of a five @-@ year national recovery plan in Somalia . The pact will see the Chinese authorities reconstruct several major infrastructural landmarks , including the Mogadishu Stadium . 
 The Banadir Stadium and <unk> Stadium are two other major sporting facilities in the capital . In 2013 , the Somali Football Federation launched a renovation project at the <unk> facility , during which artificial football turf contributed by FIFA was installed at the stadium . The <unk> @-@ <unk> basketball stadium in the <unk> District also underwent a $ 10 @,@ 000 rehabilitation , with funding provided by the local <unk> Telecom firm . Additionally , the municipal authority oversaw the reconstruction of the Banadir Stadium . 
 Various national sporting bodies also have their headquarters in Mogadishu . Among these are the Somali Football Federation , Somali Olympic Committee and Somali Basketball Federation . The Somali <unk> and <unk> Federation is likewise centered in the city , and manages the national <unk> team . 
 
 = = Transportation = = 
 
 
 = = = Road = = = 
 
 Roads leading out of Mogadishu connect the city to other localities in Somalia as well as to neighbouring countries . The capital itself is cut into several grid layouts by an extensive road network , with streets supporting the flow of both <unk> and pedestrian traffic . In October 2013 , major construction began on the 23 kilometer road leading to the airport . <unk> by Somali and Turkish engineers , the upgrade was completed in November and included lane demarcation . The road construction initiative was part of a larger agreement signed by the Somali and Turkish governments to establish Mogadishu and Istanbul as sister cities , and in the process bring all of Mogadishu 's roads up to modern standards . Following the treaty , the Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency ( <unk> ) launched a <unk> cleaning project in conjunction with the municipal cleaning department . The initiative saw around 100 rubbish collection vehicles and other equipment operated by <unk> clean the city 's roads , with the Benadir municipality taking over operation of the cleaning project in March 2015 . 
 In 2012 – 2013 , Mogadishu 's municipal authority in conjunction with the British and Norwegian governments began a project to install solar @-@ powered street lights on all of the capital 's major roads . With equipment imported from Norway , the initiative cost around $ 140 @,@ 000 and lasted several months . The solar panels have helped to improve night @-@ time visibility and enhance the city 's overall aesthetic appeal . 
 <unk> are the most common type of public transportation in Mogadishu . The next most frequently used public vehicles in the city are auto rickshaws ( <unk> ) . They number around 3 @,@ 000 units and come in various designs . The auto rickshaws represent a lower cost alternative to taxis and <unk> , typically charging half the price for the same distance , with flexible rates . Due to their <unk> , capacity to negotiate narrow lanes and low fuel consumption , the three @-@ wheeled vehicles are often appealing investment opportunities for small @-@ scale entrepreneurs . They are generally preferred for shorter <unk> . In June 2013 , two new taxi companies also started offering road transportation to residents . Part of a fleet of over 100 vehicles , Mogadishu Taxi 's trademark yellow <unk> offer rides throughout the city at flat rates of $ 5 . City Taxi , the firm 's nearest competitor , charges the same flat rate , with plans to add new <unk> to its fleet . 
 In January 2014 , the Benadir administration launched a city @-@ wide street naming , house numbering and postal codes project . Officially called the House Numbering and Post Code System , it is a joint initiative of the municipal authorities and Somali business community representatives . The project is part of the ongoing modernization and development of the capital . According to former Mayor Mohamed Ahmed Nur , the initiative also aims to help the authorities firm up on security and resolve housing ownership disputes . In March 2015 , the Benadir administration likewise launched a renovation project on the <unk> <unk> @-@ <unk> major road in Mogadishu . The government @-@ public partnership aims to facilitate vehicle access in the area . According to <unk> district commissioner Ahmed Hassan <unk> <unk> , the reconstruction initiative will also make the road all @-@ weather resistant and is slated to be completed shortly . 
 
 = = = Air = = = 
 
 During the post @-@ independence period , Mogadishu International Airport offered flights to numerous global destinations . In the mid @-@ 1960s , the airport was enlarged to accommodate more international carriers , with the state @-@ owned Somali Airlines providing regular trips to all major cities . By 1969 , the airport 's many landing grounds could also host small jets and DC 6B @-@ type aircraft . 
 The facility grew considerably in size in the post @-@ independence period after successive renovation projects . With the outbreak of the civil war in the early 1990s , Mogadishu International Airport 's flight services experienced routine disruptions and its grounds and equipment were largely destroyed . In the late 2000s , the <unk> Airport , situated 50 kilometers to the south , served as the capital 's main airport while Mogadishu International Airport , now renamed Aden Adde International Airport , briefly shut down . However , in late 2010 , the security situation in Mogadishu had significantly improved , with the federal government eventually managing to assume full control of the city by August 2011 . 
 In May 2011 , the Ministry of Transport announced that SKA @-@ Somalia had been contracted to manage operations at the re @-@ opened Aden Adde International Airport over a period of ten years . Among its first initiatives , worth an estimated $ 6 million , SKA invested in new airport equipment and expanded support services by hiring , training and <unk> 200 local workers to meet international airport standards . The company also assisted in comprehensive infrastructure renovations , restored a dependable supply of electricity , revamped the baggage handling facilities as well as the arrival and departure lounges , put into place electronic check @-@ in systems , and <unk> up on security and work @-@ flow . Additionally , SKA connected the grounds ' Somali Civil Aviation and Meteorological Agency ( <unk> ) and immigration , customs , commercial airlines and Somali Police Force officials to the internet . By January 2013 , the firm had introduced <unk> buses to ferry travelers to and from the passenger terminal . 
 In December 2011 , the Turkish government unveiled plans to further modernize the airport as part of Turkey 's broader engagement in the local post @-@ conflict reconstruction process . Among the scheduled renovations were new systems and infrastructure , including a modern control tower to monitor the airspace . In September 2013 , the Turkish company <unk> LLC began operations at the airport . The firm announced plans to renovate the aviation building and construct a new one , as well as upgrade other modern service structures . A $ 10 million project , it will increase the airport 's existing 15 aircraft capacity to 60 . In January 2015 , a new , state @-@ of @-@ the @-@ art terminal was opened at the airport . Featuring modern passenger facilities and a glass façade , it will enable the airport to double its number of daily commercial flights to 60 , with a <unk> of around 1 @,@ 000 passengers per hour . 
 As of January 2015 , the largest airline services using Aden Adde International Airport include the Somali @-@ owned private carriers Jubba Airways , <unk> Airlines , and African Express Airways , in addition to UN charter planes , Turkish Airlines , and Felix Airways ( Al <unk> Airlines ) . The airport also offers flights to other cities in Somalia , such as <unk> , <unk> and <unk> , as well as to international destinations like Djibouti , <unk> , and Istanbul . 
 In July 2012 , Mohammed <unk> Ali ( <unk> @-@ <unk> ) , the General Director of the Ministry of Aviation and Transport , also announced that the Somali government had begun preparations to revive the Mogadishu @-@ based national carrier , Somali Airlines . The first new aircraft were scheduled for delivery in December 2013 . 
 
 = = = Sea = = = 
 
 The Port of Mogadishu , also known as the Mogadishu International Port , is the official seaport of Mogadishu . <unk> as a major class port , it is the largest harbour in the country . 
 After <unk> some damage during the civil war , the federal government launched the Mogadishu Port <unk> Project , an initiative to rebuild , develop and modernize the port . The renovations included the installation of Alpha <unk> technology . A joint international delegation consisting of the Director of the Port of Djibouti and Chinese officials specializing in infrastructure reconstruction concurrently visited the facility in June 2013 . According to Mogadishu Port manager Abdullahi Ali Nur , the delegates along with local Somali officials received reports on the port 's functions as part of the rebuilding project 's planning stages . 
 In 2013 , the Port of Mogadishu 's management reportedly reached an agreement with representatives of the Iranian company <unk> Shipping LLC to handle vital operations at the seaport . Under the name Mogadishu Port <unk> Terminal , the firm is slated to handle all of the port 's technical and operational functions . 
 In October 2013 , the federal Cabinet endorsed an agreement with the Turkish firm Al @-@ Bayrak to manage the Port of Mogadishu for a 20 @-@ year period . The deal was secured by the Ministry of Ports and Public Works , and also assigns Al @-@ Bayrak responsibility for rebuilding and <unk> the seaport . In September 2014 , the federal government officially delegated management of the Mogadishu Port to Al @-@ Bayrak . The firm 's modernization project will cost $ 80 million . 
 
 = = = Railway = = = 
 
 There were projects during the 1980s to <unk> the 114 km ( 71 mi ) railway between Mogadishu and Jowhar , built by the Italians in 1926 but dismantled in World War II by British troops . It was originally intended that this railway would reach <unk> <unk> . Only a few remaining tracks inside Mogadishu 's harbour area are still used . 
 
 = = Media = = 
 
 Mogadishu has historically served as a media hub . In 1975 , the Somali Film Agency ( <unk> ) , the nation 's film regulatory body , was established in Mogadishu . The <unk> also organized the annual Mogadishu Pan @-@ African and Arab Film Symposium ( <unk> ) , which brought together an array of prominent filmmakers and movie experts from across the globe , including other parts of Northeast Africa and the Arab world , as well as Asia and Europe . 
 In addition , there are a number of radio news agencies based in Mogadishu . Radio Mogadishu is the federal government @-@ run public broadcaster . Established in 1951 in Italian Somaliland , it initially aired news items in both Somali and Italian . The station was modernized with Russian assistance following independence in 1960 , and began offering home service in Somali , <unk> and <unk> . After closing down operations in the early 1990s due to the civil war , the broadcaster was officially re @-@ opened in the early 2000s by the Transitional National Government . Other radio stations headquartered in the city include <unk> Radio , Radio Shabelle , Radio Bar @-@ <unk> , Radio <unk> , Radio <unk> , Radio <unk> , Radio Banadir , Radio <unk> , <unk> FM , Radio <unk> , and Radio Xamar , also known as Voice of Democracy . 
 The Mogadishu @-@ based Somali National Television ( <unk> ) is the central government @-@ owned broadcaster . On 4 April 2011 , the Ministry of Information of the Transitional Federal Government officially re @-@ launched the station as part of an initiative to develop the national telecommunications sector . <unk> broadcasts 24 hours a day , and can be viewed both within Somalia and abroad via terrestrial and satellite platforms . 
 Somali popular music enjoys a large audience in Mogadishu , and was widely sold prior to the civil war . With the government managing to secure the city in mid @-@ 2011 , radios once again play music . On 19 March 2012 , an open concert was held in the city , which was broadcast live on local television . In April 2013 , the <unk> <unk> ensemble also organized the <unk> Music Festival , the first international music festival to be held in Mogadishu in two decades . 
 
 = = Notable <unk> = = 
 
 
 = = Twin towns – Sister cities = = 
 
 Mogadishu is twinned with : 
 
 