Somalia is reviving its tourism industry - one trip at a time. After decades of conflict, hundreds of citizens are joining weekly excursions to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Somalia is experiencing a cautious revival of its tourism industry, with weekly guided tours now drawing around 150 participants. These tours, which include activities such as camel rides and shared meals, allow Somalis to visit parts of their country they have never seen before. The renewed interest in local tourism is attributed to improved security in Mogadishu, which has encouraged more people to travel and explore. While the industry remains fragile after decades of civil war and insurgency, these tours are seen as a sign of growing confidence and a step toward recovery.

After decades of conflict, Somalia reviving its tourism industry

Each week, hundreds of Somalis hop on these buses as part of guided tours, giving them a chance to explore parts of their country they've never seen. People of all ages, children, teenagers and adults come here and find joy. We hope that tourism will expand beyond the city limits once security improves. Camel rides and shared meals. Simple pleasures, but symbolic ones. For many, this is the first time they've travelled freely in years. For me, this is a wonderfully unique experience, unlike any other. This is the first time I have come here for a tour like this, and I'm truly grateful. Officials say around 150 people join these tours each week. Our tours were inspired by the improved security in Mogadishu. People feel safe, and that confidence is encouraging more of them to explore and enjoy the sights that we offer. After decades of civil war, militia rule and the long insurgency of al-Shabaab, Somalia is inching toward recovery, and these small journeys feel like steps on a fragile road back to normal life. For more UN videos visit www.un.org

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