Investment optimism is gradually returning to Mogadishu as the capital of war-ravaged Somalia tries to recover after more than 20 years of conflict.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
Somali hotelier Bashir Osman (front) wants to attract holidaymakers from around the world by building a seaside luxury resort in Mogadishu.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
His construction efforts are part of a growing building activity that's re-shaping parts of the troubled city.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
"If you go to Mogadishu the construction is very, very booming," says Osman. Pictured, construction workers in November 2012.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
Mogadishu's growing economy is also manifested in the aviation industry, with about 15 daily domestic and international flights.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
At Mogadishu's seaport, cranes lift goods from the commercial ships and boats lining the harbor. The wide array of imported construction materials, household goods and food are then loaded onto rows of waiting trucks.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
Somalia plunged into chaos after dictator Mohamed Siad Barre was overthrown in 1991. Following his ouster, clan warlords and militants battled for control, sparking a civil war.
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Mogadishu's economic renaissance —
Political newcomer Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was elected in September as the new leader of war-torn Somalia, a country brought to its knees after years of conflict.