Somali Citizens Unite to Fund Luxury Residence for Former President Farmaajo
In an extraordinary display of civic appreciation, Somali citizens both domestically and across the diaspora have collectively financed and constructed a private luxury mansion for former president Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, widely known by his nickname Farmaajo. This remarkable project, which began in 2022, was entirely funded through voluntary public donations rather than government allocations or private patronage, raising approximately 300,000 dollars to complete the residence in the coastal city of Marka.
Project Details and Fundraising Success
The initiative took shape in June 2022, shortly after Farmaajo concluded his presidential term, with organizers launching a fundraising campaign that garnered widespread support from Somalis worldwide. According to reports from TRT Afrika, the drive successfully collected about 300,000 dollars, reflecting deep admiration for Farmaajo's leadership and his conduct following his departure from office. Construction commenced in July 2023 and was finalized at a cost of roughly 295,000 dollars, as confirmed by the former president's communications office.
The newly completed building, officially named “Thank You, Mr President,” occupies a spacious plot measuring 120 by 140 square meters near the scenic Indian Ocean shoreline. It was formally inaugurated on February 6, 2026, in a ceremony attended by community members and the organizers who spearheaded the effort. Farmaajo expressed profound gratitude through his social media channels, thanking contributors from diverse backgrounds, including civilians and security personnel, and describing the gesture as a powerful symbol of unity that transcends political divisions.
Historical and Political Context
Farmaajo served as Somalia's ninth president from 2017 to 2022, having previously held the position of prime minister between 2010 and 2011. During the fundraising campaign, many supporters publicly praised his tenure, highlighting achievements such as fiscal discipline, efforts to restore Somalia's international reputation, and progress in debt relief negotiations. Notably, Somalia does not provide extensive pensions or lifetime benefits for former leaders, and Farmaajo had previously disclosed in interviews that he did not own a house in Mogadishu and had been residing in rented accommodations since leaving office.
The choice of Marka for the residence carries significant historical weight, as the city is home to the former residence of Aden Abdulle Hassan, Somalia's first president, adding symbolic resonance to the location. Meanwhile, current president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who succeeded Farmaajo, continues to lead reconstruction initiatives amid decades of conflict and recurring natural disasters, with support from international partners like Türkiye.
Broader Implications and Public Response
This civic gesture underscores a rare instance of public solidarity in a nation often marked by political strife. By funding the mansion through grassroots donations, Somalis have demonstrated a collective appreciation for leadership that extends beyond partisan lines. The project has sparked discussions about the role of former leaders and the ways in which communities can honor public service without relying on state resources.
In contrast to this positive development, earlier reports highlighted contentious remarks by former US president Donald Trump regarding Somali immigrants, which reignited debates about immigration and diaspora communities. However, the focus in Somalia remains on the unity exemplified by the fundraising effort, showcasing a commitment to national cohesion and respect for past leadership.
Overall, the construction of Farmaajo's mansion stands as a testament to the enduring impact of his presidency and the capacity of citizens to come together in support of shared values, setting a precedent for civic engagement in Somalia's evolving political landscape.
