Economist Podcasts Second time’s the charm? Somalia’s new president
Jun 9, 2022
Tom Gardner, The Economist's Horn of Africa correspondent, discusses Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's ambitious plans as Somalia's first re-elected president, focusing on tackling jihadist threats and fostering regional relations. Robert Guest, the foreign editor, delves into how education plays a crucial role in helping communities adapt to climate change, highlighting the challenges faced by those less educated. Additionally, they touch on the burgeoning optimism in the film industry, sparked by recent blockbuster successes, signaling a potential revival of cinema attendance.
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Mogadishu's Security Challenges
- Tom Gardner visited Mogadishu shortly after Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's election, experiencing the city's security challenges firsthand.
- Traveling outside the airport's green zone required a heavily armed escort, highlighting the tense atmosphere.
Somalia's New President
- Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is described as an academic, civil rights campaigner, and a conciliatory yet tough leader.
- He survived multiple assassination attempts during his first term, highlighting the dangerous political landscape.
A Divided Nation
- Mohamud inherits a Somalia more divided and isolated than in 2012.
- The previous president's populist approach worsened relations with regional leaders and foreign allies.