Markets continue to Reopen in Mogadishu

By African Union Commission (AUC)

MOGADISHU, Somalia, November 14, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Over 500 people yesterday attended the reopening of two markets in Mogadishu's Deynile district in yet another sign of the improving security situation in the Somali capital.

The markets, which primarily sell fruit and meat, were reopened by Transitional federal government officials following operations to clear Al Qaeda‐linked terrorists from the area.

Following a successful operation to secure parts of the vast outlying district, people in the Afgoye corridor who had previously been prevented by the extremists from returning to their homes in the city are now streaming back.

In August, the Somali National Army, with the support of the African Union Mission in Somalia, forced the terrorists out of the capital. Ever since, Mogadishu has been experiencing a resurgence. Roads are being repaired, homes rebuilt and markets reopened.

Despite the ongoing threat of terrorist attack, there are people out in the streets late into the night and, in the last few weeks, hundreds have been congregating at the city's scenic Lido beach for the first time in years to enjoy a dip in the ocean or a game of beach football.