Somalia's first bowling alley reflects return to normal life in Mogadishu

The opening of Somalia's first modern bowling alley in the capital, Mogadishu, has brought joy for locals and returning citizens.

The city's been called "the most dangerous place in the world" as a result of the decades-long Somali civil war, but its people also call it "the pearl of the Indian Ocean".

The opening of the Feynuus Bowling Centre at the start of 2025 is being heralded as the latest sign of revival in the once-thriving Indian Ocean port shaped by 35 years of conflict and militant bombings.

This increasingly popular social centre is drawing locals as well as Somalis who fled the conflict returning from the diaspora, says Rutendo Hwindingwi,

"The bowling centre has made such a social impact both locally and in the diaspora, with people coming back to Somalia from all over the world. Stories like this excite them because it gives them hope in terms of where the country and the city can go."

"It's a social gathering place for both young and old which just gives a breath of fresh air for a country that has gone through so much tumult over the last couple of decades."

In January this year, Feynuus proudly posted images of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud paying them a visit and joining in the activities on offer.

While improved security measures against al-Shabab, an expanded government presence and growing private investment have allowed daily life to re-emerge in Mogadishu in recent years, security measures like checkpoints remain in place, reports Africanews.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to Africa Business Focus with Rutendo Hwindingwi (Mogadishu discussion at 7:23)