KEY POINTS
- Somalia installs thousands of cameras to monitor militant activity.
- Businesses are under threat from al Shabaab for complying with the initiative.
- Mixed reactions as residents feel both safer and more at risk due to surveillance.
Somalia has placed thousands of security cameras throughout Mogadishu in an attempt to lessen al Shabaab’s influence in the capital.
In the midst of decades of conflict, the city government initiated the project to keep an eye on militant movements and reassure the population.
Although the surveillance system has reportedly already improved security, many company owners have faced new difficulties as a result of it, such as the possibility of violent militant revenge.
Businesses face new threats
Since the cameras were installed in several districts, including Daynile and Hodan, at least three people have been killed, and four others injured in attacks on businesses that participated in the program.
These incidents have sparked fear among shopkeepers and residents, who are now caught between government orders to maintain surveillance and threats from al Shabaab militants demanding the removal of the cameras.
“Some of our businesses are under direct threat,” explained Mohamed Ahmed Diriye, a deputy mayor. “We warn them against taking orders from terrorists, but we understand that they are in a difficult position. Anyone who removes the cameras will face the law.”
Business owners have expressed frustration and fear as they navigate the conflicting demands of the government and the militants.
Farah Aden, a shopkeeper in Daynile, described the situation as a “dilemma,” explaining that business owners feel trapped. “We are stuck between the government’s directives and the militants’ threats, which puts us in danger,” Aden said.
Public reaction to increased surveillance
While some residents have voiced concerns, others welcome the increased surveillance. Many believe that the cameras have brought a sense of safety to public spaces, helping people resume their daily lives with more confidence.
According to Reuters, Ahmed Ibrahim, a second-year university student, praised the initiative, stating that it has made attending school much safer.
“Before, there were frequent explosions near the school, which made it very difficult to concentrate,” he said. “Now, things are a bit better. The cameras have added some reassurance.”
Despite this, the risk of being caught in militant reprisals remains a constant worry. For people like Samira Olow, a 30-year-old mother of six, the fear of violence persists, particularly when venturing outside for basic tasks.
“I worry about my safety every time I leave the house,” Olow said. “Even going to buy food is risky, as the shopkeeper could be attacked while I’m there.”
Balancing security and fear
The installation of surveillance cameras was intended to lessen violence and increase law enforcement’s efficiency, but it has also increased public concern.
The complex security situation in Mogadishu, where al Shabaab maintains a strong presence despite continuous government efforts to eliminate the militant group, is reflected in the competing demands encountered by business owners.
Deputy Mayor Diriye and other government representatives have reiterated their resolve to uphold the cameras and resist al Shabaab’s threats.
Business owners, however, are still torn because they worry that continuing to follow government directives could endanger their lives.
The camera initiative’s success is still up in the air as Somalia fights militancy, and the public and government are struggling to strike a balance between increased security and the persistent fear of retaliation.
