Chaos and Controversy: The Battle Over Mogadishu's Cemetery

Oh, the Bulusiya School cemetery in Mogadishu! It's a place where even the dead aren't safe from the government's land grab. Who needs peace and quiet when you can have a shiny new Somali Navy training center, right?

But seriously, it's a pretty somber situation. Families are being forced to spend money to exhume and reinter their loved ones due to the government's decision to repurpose the cemetery land. It's causing a lot of emotional distress and public outcry.

The Somali government has given families a tight deadline to relocate the bodies from the Bulusiya School cemetery. The Defense Minister claims the land is crucial for national interests, but many people are accusing the government of insensitivity and a lack of transparency.

It's a tough situation, and it's understandable why people are upset. I mean, who wants to dig up their loved ones and move them to a new location? It's a lot to ask, especially when it's done without much warning or consideration for the families' feelings.

But hey, at least the Somali Navy will have a nice new training center, right?

In the heart of Mogadishu lies the Bulusiya School cemetery. Located centrally in the Hodan district, near the bustling Bakara Market, this graveyard has silently borne witness to the city's tumultuous past. Established in the late 19th century during the colonial era, it has since become the final resting place for an estimated 50,000 to 70,000 souls. Among those buried here are former leaders, artists, scholars, and poets, including notable figures such as General Salaad Gabayre Kadiye, General Aynanshe, singer Mohamed Suleban Tubec, Abdi Tahlil Warsame, Marshale, and Awkuku. The government's recent directive to exhume bodies from this cemetery, citing concerns over disease transmission and the need for more space in the densely populated city, has ignited significant controversy. Many locals view this decision as a profound disrespect to their ancestors, seeing the graveyard not just as a burial ground but as a crucial part of their cultural and historical heritage. The graveyard's location and history make it a landmark of immense emotional and historical significance, and the debate over its future highlights the delicate balance between development and reverence for the past.

Suitability for Naval Training

But is the graveyard suitable for naval training camp? While it may seem like a strategic location, the reality is far more concerning. The graveyard is situated in the center of the city, surrounded by residents, and its tiny size raises significant questions about its suitability for naval training. The health impacts of living near a graveyard cannot be ignored. Studies have shown that proximity to graveyards can increase the risk of respiratory diseases, mental health issues, and even cancer. Decomposing bodies can lead to the spread of serious diseases like tuberculosis, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and other waterborne illnesses. Furthermore, the leaching of decomposing material into groundwater can contaminate the water supply, posing long-term health risks to both naval personnel and the local population. The psychological impact of living near a graveyard is equally troubling, contributing to anxiety and stress among residents. Considering these factors, the suitability of a graveyard for naval training is highly questionable due to the potential health risks for personnel. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of our naval trainees by seeking alternative sites that do not pose such severe health and environmental hazards.

Alternative Strategic Locations

While the Bulusiya School cemetery is central, other strategic locations should be considered for naval training. If the president is sincere in addressing this matter, Somalia's extensive coastline, the longest in Africa, presents several viable alternatives. Given that much of the southern and central coast of Somalia is controlled by Al-Shabaab, Puntland emerges as the best option, offering a considerable coastline suitable for naval training facilities. Important factors such as accessibility, security, and existing infrastructure should be prioritized when selecting the location. The graveyard in Mogadishu is not merely a burial site but a repository of rich history and cultural heritage. The government's decision to disinter the dead may stem from practical motives, yet it is crucial to recognize the cultural and emotional significance of the cemetery to the local community. Alternative strategic locations for naval training comp should be explored to avoid harming or disrespecting the community. As Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Noor pointed out, the country’s naval coast guard will be stationed there. This situation requires carefully balancing progress with respect for historical and cultural heritage; however, the current approach appears to be leaning toward chaos and controversy.

Author: Said Noor