Former Mogadishu Mayor Dr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein, popularly
known as Muungaab, has officially announced his bid for the dual position of
Mayor of Mogadishu and Governor of Banadir Region.
He touted his bid to have a people-centered development
agenda focused on jobs, infrastructure, trade, and tourism.
Speaking during the Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP)
campaign team launch in Mogadishu, Muungaab promised to transform Banadir into
a dynamic regional hub for business and agriculture, with renewed partnerships
in tourism and hospitality.
“Our goal is clear — to create jobs, expand trade, and
modernize our city’s infrastructure so that every citizen can benefit from
growth,” he told an enthusiastic crowd.
“Banadir must be open for business, for our people and our
neighbours. We welcome Kenyan investors and partners to join us in building a
vibrant tourism and hospitality sector.”
Muungaab’s manifesto is anchored on four key pillars —
infrastructure, agriculture, trade, and tourism.
He pledged to revive Banadir’s economy through improved road
networks, modern markets, and accessible public services that empower local
entrepreneurs and farmers.
“We will transform Banadir into a region that feeds itself,
connects with others, and attracts investors,” he said.
“Through infrastructure and agriculture, we will build
livelihoods. Through trade and tourism, we will secure our future.”
Youth empowerment also forms a core part of Muungaab’s
platform. He pledged to create thousands of jobs through small business
support, skills training, and public works projects.
The announcement took place during a colourful ceremony
organized by JSP to unveil its campaign team for the upcoming Banadir District
Council elections.
The event drew senior party officials, government ministers,
members of parliament, district commissioners, and hundreds of supporters.
Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Hussein Sheikh Mahmoud endorsed
Muungaab as the party’s candidate, describing him as a leader of integrity,
action, and vision.
“This is a historic moment for Mogadishu,” he said.
“Dr. Muungaab has the experience, the trust of the people,
and the courage to rebuild Banadir from the ground up.”
Muungaab previously served as Mogadishu Mayor for a brief
period earlier this year, during which he removed concrete roadblocks to
improve movement, reorganized municipal staff, and accelerated voter
registration—achieving nearly one million registered residents.
His earlier leadership between 2014 and 2015 saw major road
rehabilitations and the launch of infrastructure projects that continue to
benefit residents.
For many in Mogadishu, his return signals hope for
inclusive, community-driven leadership.
“All we hope for is a city that is neat and secure so that
we can move and do business until late,” said Asha Mohammed, a local trader.
