Mogadishu (WDN)– A powerful overnight downpour has left a trail of destruction in Mogadishu, claiming lives, flooding neighborhoods, and once again exposing the deep cracks in the capital’s infrastructure.

Confirmed reports indicate that a woman and her young niece were tragically killed when their home collapsed during the storm in the Xamar Jajab district. Their deaths are a grim reminder of the human toll exacted by poor urban planning and corrupt construction practices.

The flooding caused widespread havoc, sweeping away vehicles, motorcycles, and destroying numerous homes. Particularly alarming to residents is the fact that six major roads recently built by Somali contractors were completely washed out—raising serious questions about construction standards, oversight, and the mismanagement of public funds.

In stark contrast, many of the roads constructed by Turkish firms remain intact, underscoring what many residents see as the cost of entrenched corruption. “This is the price of corruption—paid in blood,” said one Mogadishu resident, surveying the destruction.

Mogadishu International Airport was also affected, with water flooding key terminals and causing significant delays, especially for pilgrims trying to depart during the storm.

Public frustration is mounting. Despite being the highest-taxed population in the country, Mogadishu residents say they see little to no return in terms of public services or infrastructure investment. The disparity between taxation and public benefit has fueled resentment and sparked renewed calls for accountability from both municipal and federal authorities.

Main roads across the city remain waterlogged, while many newly paved streets—some only months old—have cracked or collapsed entirely. The rain has brought daily life to a halt, making it nearly impossible for people or vehicles to move freely.

As Mogadishu continues to expand, the urgent need for transparent governance, quality public works, and disaster preparedness becomes more critical than ever.

WardheerNews