MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) – Somali kids just want to have fun. They climb on a jungle gym, ride bikes, splash in a swimming pool and laugh – a scene normal in many parts of the world, but new in Mogadishu where decades of bloody battles have kept children indoors, their parents hiding them from violence.
The Mogadishu Guest House opened a children’s playground recently in hopes of reshaping the lives of children in a city where stability is increasing after the ouster of al-Shabab militants from the capital and surrounding towns.
“It’s sort of a strange business, but helps to reshape our children’s lifestyle,” says Salim Salad, the manager of the hotel that invested in a playground, basketball court, gym and children’s toys.
Parents like Sadiya Muhummed say this helps their children grow in an atmosphere free of guns.
“A much needed service, our children can have fun finally,” said the Somali-American who returned to Mogadishu with her three children five months ago from the U.S.