Live Data
Capital
Mogadishu
Population
18.1 million (2024 est.)
Area
637,657 kmΒ²
Languages
Somali, Arabic
Currency
Somali Shilling (SOS)
Timezone
East Africa Time (UTC+3)
Regions
Banadir (Mogadishu)
The capital region surrounding Mogadishu, a historic Indian Ocean port city with centuries of trade heritage. Mogadishu's old city features Italian colonial architecture, the ancient Lighthouse of Mogadishu, and Liido Beach. The city is rebuilding and modernizing rapidly after decades of conflict. View on the Pulse map.
Puntland
A semi-autonomous region in northeastern Somalia, centered on the port city of Garowe and the historic coastal town of Bosaso. Puntland has been relatively stable and serves as a key hub for trade, maritime activity, and reconstruction efforts. Explore the region on the Pulse map.
Somaliland
A self-declared independent republic in the northwest, Somaliland has maintained relative peace and stability since 1991 and operates its own government, currency, and institutions. Hargeisa, the capital, is a growing city with a vibrant business culture. The region features the ancient rock art of Laas Geel, estimated at 5,000 years old. View on the Pulse map.
Southern Somalia
The agricultural heartland of Somalia, fed by the Shabelle and Juba rivers. Major cities include Kismayo (a key port on the Indian Ocean), Baidoa, and Jowhar. The region supports livestock, banana, and sesame farming and has significant potential for agricultural development. View on the Pulse map.
Galmudug and Central Regions
Central Somalia includes the regions of Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Mudug. The coastal city of Hobyo has historical significance as a former pirate stronghold and trading port. The central regions are pastoral, supporting camel and livestock herding communities. View on the Pulse map.
ποΈInfrastructure
Somalia's infrastructure has been severely affected by decades of conflict, though significant reconstruction is underway. Key projects include port expansions at Berbera and Mogadishu, road rehabilitation, and airport upgrades. The Berbera Corridor β connecting Berbera port to Ethiopia β is a major infrastructure initiative. Power generation remains limited, with many businesses and households relying on private generators and solar power. For a geographic overview, explore the Pulse map.
π₯Healthcare
Somalia's healthcare system is severely underdeveloped after decades of conflict. Public health facilities are limited and often lack basic equipment and supplies. International organizations and NGOs provide significant health services, particularly in Mogadishu and major regional centres. Private clinics exist in larger cities but quality varies. Medical evacuation to Nairobi or Dubai is essential for serious conditions. Consult the Ministry of Health Somalia and the WHO country health profiles and WHO Regional Office for Africa resource for current health advisories.
πTransportation
Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu serves as the main international gateway, with connections to Nairobi, Dubai, Istanbul, and other hubs. Hargeisa's Egal International Airport connects to Addis Ababa, Djibouti, and Nairobi. Domestic flights are the safest way to travel between cities. Road infrastructure is limited, and overland travel requires careful security assessment. For a geographic view of the transport network, explore the Pulse map.