In the heart of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, the landscape is dramatically transforming as women take on pivotal roles in the construction sector. Young engineers Fathi Mohamed Abdi and Saadia Ahmed Omar are leading the charge, overseeing the development of a ten-floor apartment complex in the Hodan District. Their involvement reflects a broader trend of increasing female participation in a traditionally male-dominated profession.
A Changing Landscape
Mogadishu has seen a resurgence in construction, with over 6,000 buildings erected in the past five years alone, marking a significant shift in its urban environment. This rebuilding effort follows decades of conflict that saw the city’s infrastructure devastated. Today, cranes punctuate the skyline as complex projects emerge from the remnants of war.
Despite socio-political challenges, including the ongoing threat from militant groups, the construction boom has created new opportunities for women like Abdi and Omar. Both women, who are 24 years old and have operated in the engineering sector for five years, express pride in their roles. “Mogadishu needs us,” Omar states, highlighting their ambition to contribute to the city’s reconstruction.
Overcoming Challenges
Abdi, the Chief Operating Officer of Arkan Engineering Services, recalls the skepticism she faced entering a profession dominated by men. “When I started, people doubted me,” she says, reflecting on the barriers women experience. “They would ask, ‘How can I trust my money and property with a young female engineer?’”
In contrast to the past, recent years have seen a shift in perceptions. Ibrahim Abdi Heyle, Chairman of the Somali Engineers Association, concurs. He notes that the high demand for skilled professionals is resulting in increased opportunities for women. “Women are not only welcomed but also vital in filling critical gaps in the workforce,” he said, emphasizing the benefits of diversity in engineering.
Government and Organizational Support
The city’s improving security conditions have spurred growth in real estate investments, often funded by Somali diasporas. Salah Hassan Omar, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office, reports that enhanced safety has led to a boom in high-rise buildings and commercial structures. However, he also acknowledges that women make up only 5% of engineers in the field, indicating the need for further encouragement and mentorship opportunities.
While Abdi and Omar represent growing success stories, they highlight the challenges faced by many aspiring female engineers. Omar shared her struggle to secure internships, stating, “They didn’t think a woman could handle the physical demands of engineering.” After months of searching, she finally found a company willing to take a chance on her.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, Abdi and Omar believe that Mogadishu’s recovery continues to offer expansive possibilities. The pair has overseen substantial projects valued in the multimillion-dollar range. “The city is now home to taller buildings and modern infrastructure, a stark contrast to the Mogadishu of the past,” Abdi concluded, foreshadowing a hopeful future.
Despite the significant advancements, concerns remain regarding the integrity and safety of new constructions. Veteran architect Siidow Cabdulle Boolaay has raised alarms about the quality of materials used and the loss of historical character in the city. “The tall buildings are not designed to withstand fire or heavy rain,” he warned, underscoring the need for stricter regulations in urban planning to ensure safety and preservation of Mogadishu’s cultural heritage.
Building a Future
In a growing city where challenges meet opportunity, the resilience of women in engineering symbolizes a potential rebirth of Mogadishu. As the Somali Engineers Association works to empower more women in the sector, the focus will remain on sustainable urban development.
Christophe Hodder, a UN climate security and environmental adviser, advocates for a coordinated approach to resource management to prevent potential crises stemming from oversaturation of boreholes. As the city continues to expand, the balance between growth and sustainability will be crucial.
Even as they navigate the complexities of reconstruction amidst security threats, Abdi and Omar carry hope for Mogadishu’s future a tangible reflection of their commitment to not only craft buildings but also reconstruct hope within their community.
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