On July 1, 2015, Somalia celebrated 55 years of independence – and doubtless it has been a tough and painful ride.
The country had no formal government or parliament for more than two decades after the overthrow of President Siad Barre in 1991 which was followed by years of anarchy.
It was not until 2012, when a new internationally-backed government was installed, that the Horn of Africa nation that had become a poster child of state failure, began to take baby steps toward recovery and a measure of stability once more in some parts of it.
Despite the major challenges, Somalia has over its history still managed to pull together some feats, producing impressive results.
This year saw a peaceful power transition; the country was ranked to be one with the most competitive telecom market by the World Bank’s Global Financial Inclusion Database, free education launched after almost 20 years amongst other achievements.
Here are some of the best stories coming out of Somalia this year:
Somalia commissions its first petroleum depot
The US$ 20 million depot was officially opened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This facility will be operated by a private investor and is expected to provide a stable petroleum supply for the country, which is dependent on imported petrol. The storage which is one of the largest investments in Somalia consists of seven tanks. Businesses and consumers in the country now expect the cost of the petroleum products in Somalia to stabilise. The government has been lobbying for investments in the country after attaining relative peace in the capital. Mogadishu has long been a soft target of al-Shabab insurgents.
Somalia’s Jazeera Palace Hotel reopened months after a deadly attack there
Somalia’s Jazeera Palace Hotel was reopened – months after a deadly attack there. The Mogadishu hotel now has several new features – including tighter security.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc351kLROzs
Somalia holds its first ever job fair
Somalia’s capital city, Mogadishu hosted a job fair aimed at tackling unemployment and boosting female participation in looking for work. Various employers, entrepreneurs and job seekers were in attendance.
Somalia reopens its US embassy after 24 years shutdown
Somali-Americans say it’s not just a diplomatic formality, but represents new hope for the country’s transformation after years of turmoil.
More than 130 medical students graduate in Somalia
More than 130 medical students in Somalia’s capital graduated making it the largest number of medical doctors to graduate in one given time. Six years ago – a terrorist attacked Benadir University’s graduation ceremony – killing 19 people – but six years later – the students graduated peacefully and now hope to play a role in improving the country’s healthcare”.
