Rising from Rubble: How Somalia's Female Engineers are Shaping a New Future
In Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, a remarkable construction boom is transforming the cityscape, and women like Fathi Mohamed Abdi and Saadia Ahmed Omar are at the forefront. These two young female engineers, both 24 years old, are overseeing the construction of a 10-floor apartment complex in the city’s Hodan District. With hard hats on, they navigate construction sites, defying gender stereotypes in a male-dominated industry.
Fathi, who is the chief operating officer of Arkan Engineering Services, recalls the skepticism she faced beginning her career: “How can we trust a house built by a woman?” However, despite a patriarchal society and the challenges posed by al-Shabab, they are motivated to contribute to the reconstruction of Somalia, a country scarred by years of civil war.
In the face of widespread reconstruction, these women represent a significant shift in opportunities in a field traditionally dominated by men. The Somali Engineers Association has noted a growing demand for skilled professionals, which is slowly changing the landscape of women in engineering. Ibrahim Abdi Heyle, chairman of the association, highlights that women are essential in addressing the skilled labor shortage, emphasizing their unique perspectives and innovative approaches to engineering.
Over the past five years, Mogadishu has seen over 6,000 new buildings, transforming the skyline as the security situation improves. While this progress has attracted investment and talent, it raises concerns about construction quality and safety standards. Criticism arises from architect Siidow Cabdulle Boolaay, who laments the loss of the city’s historical character and warns of the risks posed by using salty sand in construction, which can undermine structural integrity.
Despite the challenges, including limited opportunities for mentorship and initially facing rejection from potential employers, Fathi and Saadia have successfully overseen numerous multimillion-dollar projects, helping to redefine what is possible for women in their country. They advocate for the role of female engineers in steering the city towards a sustainable future, showcasing that empowerment leads to remarkable transformations.
Nevertheless, rapid urbanization has illuminated critical infrastructure challenges, including a lack of sewage systems and the risk of groundwater depletion due to unregulated borehole drilling. As Mogadishu’s population continues to grow, challenges related to poverty and social disparity also intensify.
Looking ahead, both women remain optimistic about the future. They envision Mogadishu not only as a modern city but as a model for post-conflict reconstruction. Their commitment and pride in contributing to the city’s development demonstrate that they are not just building structures; they are also building hope for their community’s future. “We are proving that women can not only design buildings but also lead projects and shape the city,” affirms Ms. Abdi. Mogadishu’s resurgence reflects resilience, ambition, and a collective aspiration for a brighter tomorrow.