Mogadishu, Somalia — Residents of Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, have expressed strong support for the government’s recent initiative to legalize public land long occupied by poor and displaced people who have had nowhere else to live for decades.

A community meeting held at the Afrik Hotel brought together a wide range of participants, including traditional elders, youth, scholars, women, politicians, and intellectuals. Attendees praised the government’s decision to formalize ownership for families living on public land, calling it a historic step toward justice and stability.

“I’ve lived in Mogadishu for 52 years and never owned land. Today, I finally have land to call my own, thanks to President Hassan Sheikh,” said Ahmed Dheere, one of the speakers at the event.

Professor Salaamullah, another speaker, commended the government’s efforts and criticized those spreading misinformation about the initiative. “The government has handled this process responsibly,” he said. “Some politicians who oppose it have no real agenda. Instead, they spread propaganda against a program that benefits the poor.”

Security officials in Mogadishu told Telegaraf that the capital’s security situation has improved following the demolition of several slum areas, which had previously served as hideouts for criminals and extremists.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently announced that Mogadishu is undergoing a beautification campaign. He said the government aims to replace dilapidated slums with new infrastructure, including roads and public spaces, to make the city cleaner and more accessible.

However, the government’s land policy has faced criticism from opposition groups. Last week, opposition leaders held a rally urging citizens to reject the initiative, accusing the administration of displacing vulnerable people. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud dismissed these claims, saying the opposition lacks constructive political ideas and instead resorts to inciting unrest.     Telegaraf News