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In the aftermath of conflict, cities prioritize reconstruction, but green spaces often get left behind. This study delves into how residents of post-conflict cities engage with urban parks, providing valuable knowledge for decision-makers to unlock the full potential of these green havens for social cohesion and well-being.
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Target audience
Urban Planners, City Officials in post-conflict settings and International Aid Organizations working on urban development and social cohesion.
The problem
We investigated parks and green spaces in cities recovering from conflict, focusing on where they are located, how many there are, who uses them, why people visit them, and how parks affect people’s health.
What we did and why
To understand how residents use Mogadishu’s parks, we conducted a resident survey and analyzed maps. This combined approach helped us see park usage patterns, accessibility, and distribution across the city.
Our study’s contribution
The study revealed a diminishing and limited green space, like parks and playgrounds, in Mogadishu. The results have also shown that people visit green spaces in Mogadishu to reduce stress and connect with nature which is a critical factor for maintaining good health. Younger residents (25-35), mostly born during or after the conflict, showed a surprising acceptance of the limited park availability. This suggests a potential normalization, which could hinder future efforts to improve green spaces in the city.
Impacts for city policy and practice
For cities rebuilding after conflict, like Mogadishu, fewer green spaces threaten health. Policymakers must prioritize creating new parks, maintaining existing ones, and ensuring access. Addressing land grabbing, privatization, and security concerns alongside public awareness campaigns can unlock the healing power of green spaces
Further information
Full research article:
Accessibility and usage patterns of urban green spaces in Mogadishu, Somalia by Abdishakur Awil Hassan, Mahad Wasuge, Daud Muse Daud and Ahmed-Nor Mohamed Abdi.
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