Mogadishu, Somalia – Lido Beach, a popular seaside destination in the capital, is known for its vibrant atmosphere, attracting families, youth, and elders looking to enjoy the ocean breeze and swim in the Indian Ocean—especially on weekends and public holidays.
Yet for many women, Lido Beach has become a place of anxiety and fear rather than relaxation and joy. Female swimmers say they are routinely subjected to harassment, particularly by groups of young men who frequent the beach.
“I never feel free,” says swimmer Faadumo Ahmed
Faadumo Ahmed, a regular visitor to Lido Beach and someone who enjoys swimming, told Bilan Media that the experience has become increasingly unsafe.
“I come here to swim and unwind, but I never feel free. Young men deliberately get too close to us—sometimes even touching us inappropriately. This keeps happening, and there’s no one to stop them,” she said.
Men speak out: “I won’t swim—I’m standing guard”
Mahad Muse, a young man who frequents the beach, said he accompanied his three sisters and made the decision not to swim himself.
“Some boys have no respect—they pull women into the water and try to remove their clothes. Just days ago, I saw a girl being harassed in the sea. Her clothes were torn in public. It was disturbing,” he said.
Mahad believes the government should deploy security officers at the beach and implement strict penalties for offenders.
Lack of enforcement fuels abuse
The absence of law enforcement or coast guard presence on Lido Beach is a major concern. Many argue that without proper monitoring and clear legal consequences, the harassment will only continue.
There are growing calls for a comprehensive public safety strategy that includes security patrols, awareness campaigns, and designated safe zones for female swimmers.
Swimming is a life skill, not a privilege
Advocates point out that swimming is not just a leisure activity but a critical life skill that everyone—regardless of gender—should feel safe to learn and practice. Creating a secure and respectful environment could encourage more women to engage in the sport and enjoy their time at the beach without fear.
Fahio Murad
Bilan Media