Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital, has officially implemented the decision announced yesterday by the Governor of the Banadir Region, Hassan Mohamed Hussein alias
Mungaab.
In the ruling, he ordered that Somali shillings must be accepted, after several days during which merchants in Mogadishu had refused to use the local currency.
Mungaab directly instructed business owners that they were not allowed to reject the use of Somali shillings. He warned that any business owner who refused the local currency would be considered a criminal.
The Governor stated that Somali shillings are part of the foundation of the nation and a key backbone Is a of economic life, emphasizing that protecting the local currency is both a constitutional duty and a responsibility that requires the conscience of citizens.
Following this, the order was implemented across the city today, and the use of the Somali shilling—particularly the thousand-shilling note—was resumed widely.
A mother involved in trading at Bacaad Market, speaking to the media, said that they are now continuing their business using Somali shillings and are complying with the directive.
“Yesterday, since he gave out the instructions to use the shilling we started and we are continuing to accept it,” she said.
“Because with no change and no breakdown, there’s nothing people can do properly, and the person selling to you may not accept a refund request.”
Another business owner who sells vegetables said that they faced difficulties during the period when Somali shillings were being rejected, but they welcomed the decision now that the local currency has been restored.
“Cash is being taken. These last two days we were worried especially if we were selling vegetables,” he said. “We were unable to sell properly, and we are very pleased with the region’s management decision.”
For now, the regional administration says the move follows an urgent meeting held yesterday between Muungaab and various merchants in Mogadishu, where he ordered that Somali shillings must be used—an instruction that has now taken effect.
Mustaqbal
