On the outskirts of Somalia’s capital, Darusalaam Zoo offers a rare glimpse of wildlife to residents of the conflict-torn nation.
The zoo, Somalia’s only such facility, has been operating for a decade, providing a sanctuary for various wild animals and a safe space for locals to learn about wildlife.
Mohamed Abdirahmam, the zoo’s keeper, interacts with hyenas and snakes, drawing cheers from onlookers.
“We started with one crocodile. Now we have over a hundred different animals including lions, foxes, porcupines, and hares,” Abdirahmam told Reuters.
He said he has raised many of the animals from a young age, feeding and caring for them “like a parent”.
“The lions even recognize my voice,” Abdirahmam added.
The zoo serves as an educational resource, allowing visitors to see animals they previously only watched on television.
“People used to see wild animals from TV screens but today they directly see the wild animals,” Abdirahmam explained.
Layla Mustafa, a Mogadishu resident, said, “There is a big difference” between watching animals on TV and seeing them in person.
The zoo stands as a symbol of resilience in a country grappling with years of conflict and instability.
(Reuters)