Somali women in Mogadishu’s internally displaced camps have found new ways to support their families.
As peace slowly returns, the Lido beach has once again become a popular public venue at weekends.
Asha Mohamed Hassan, a single mother of five children, leaves her shelter in an IDP camp in Bondere to go down to the beach to make some money from the revelers.
“I sell tea and other food stuffs on the beach on Thursday and Friday. I also guard swimmers’ clothes. I make 50,000 Somalis shilling from the tea sales only, and on top of that I charge the swimmers 2,000 each for guarding their clothes,” she said.
Amina Elmi, 45, another displaced mother, has also been innovative. She hires out life jackets and sells water, biscuits and other snacks.
“I am here every Thursday and Friday, it is better than unemployment,” she said. “My small earnings help me support four of my children to go to school.”
On a good day, Amina makes around $10 profit. She is confident that if security improves her business will grow.
The Mogadishu residents, enjoying themselves on the beach, appreciate the services offered by these women.
“I don’t have money to buy from them but it is a good start,” said Yussuf Abdi Iman.
Radio Ergo’s local reporter said there are around 50 women currently engaged in small businesses along the Lido beach.
