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After 32 years of self-declared independence, Somaliland has made remarkable progress in many areas peacebuilding, elections, and private-sector growth. Cities like Hargeisa, Burao, and Borama are expanding fast, with new roads, buildings, and businesses appearing every year. But amid this urban growth, one basic question remains unanswered: Where are the sidewalks?
In cities across Somaliland, pedestrians are being forgotten. Roads are built for cars, not for people. Sidewalks if they exist at all are narrow, broken, or blocked. There is little room for people to walk safely, freely, or comfortably.
This isn’t just about convenience. Walking is a basic form of mobility and a foundation of healthy urban life. Sidewalks reduce road accidents, promote physical and mental health, and encourage community interaction. In a country where many people cannot afford private cars, walking is not a choice it’s a necessity.
Hargeisa: A Capital Built for Cars, Not People
Take Hargeisa, Somaliland’s political and economic capital. The city is growing rapidly, with new highways and overpasses funded by public and private investment. But few of these road projects include proper walkways. Pedestrians are forced to walk along busy traffic lanes, dodging vehicles, breathing in dust and exhaust.
If you want to walk peacefully in Hargeisa, your options are shockingly limited. Most people end up in private hotel compounds like Guled Hotel or Grand Hadi, which offer some green space. But these are not truly public spaces. Some require entrance fees, and others are too small or exclusive to serve a wider public. This reflects a bigger issue: basic urban needs are being commercialized, when they should be publicly accessible to all.
Other Cities, Same Problem
This lack of pedestrian planning is not unique to Hargeisa. The same pattern exists in nearly every major city across Somaliland — from Burao and Erigavo to Laascaanood and Borama. Urban planning is heavily vehicle-centered. Public parks and walkways are rare. Sidewalks are often overlooked in favor of wider roads and new construction that prioritizes cars over people.
Meanwhile, Berbera offers a glimpse of what’s possible. In some parts of the city, walkways have been included in urban planning efforts, especially near the beach and central areas. While not perfect, Berbera shows that walkable cities can exist in Somaliland if they are prioritized.
Why Sidewalks Matter
Investing in sidewalks may seem secondary to major infrastructure projects like highways or ports, but their impact on daily urban life is profound and far-reaching. Sidewalks are not just physical structures; they are essential to creating healthier, safer, and more inclusive cities.
First and foremost, sidewalks promote public health. They encourage walking, which helps prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease and obesity, while also supporting mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety. A safe and accessible walking environment motivates people to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.
Sidewalks also contribute to economic and social vitality. When streets are walkable, small businesses and street vendors benefit from increased foot traffic. Local economies thrive when people feel safe and comfortable exploring neighborhoods on foot. In addition, sidewalks support equity by serving the many residents especially in Somaliland who rely on walking as their primary mode of transportation.
Beyond their practical function, sidewalks help build stronger communities. They create shared public spaces where people can connect, socialize, and feel a sense of belonging. In this way, walkable cities become more vibrant, inclusive, and humane. Simply put, sidewalks matterbecause cities are for people, and people need space to walk, safely and with dignity.
Time for Action
If Somaliland is serious about sustainable development and inclusive urban growth, then walkability must become a core part of national planning. As cities expand and new roads are built, the needs of pedestrians are often ignored. Sidewalks are not a luxury or an afterthought—they are essential infrastructure that ensures safety, accessibility, and dignity for all citizens, especially children, the elderly, and those without cars.
Incorporating sidewalks into every new road project should be a requirement. Pedestrian-friendly spaces such as walking paths, shaded walkways, and public parks must be developed and maintained in all neighborhoods, not just affluent areas. Walkable cities reduce traffic congestion, improve public health, and encourage stronger community interaction.
To support this shift, there must also be public education campaigns that raise awareness about the value of walkable spaces. When people understand the personal and collective benefits—such as improved health, safety, and a cleaner environment—they are more likely to support city planning that includes pedestrian infrastructure.
Ultimately, sidewalks reflect how much we value people in our cities. A city without sidewalks is a city that has forgotten its people. If we want urban spaces that are healthy, safe, and inclusive, then we must make room for people to walknot in the distant future, but starting now. Walkability is not just a planning issue; it is a human right.
About the Author
Kaltun Osman is a humanitarian worker and gender activist who has dedicated her career to advancing women’s rights, political participation, and governance across the Horn of Africa. She brings a unique perspective that bridges grassroots activism with policy advocacy, focusing on inclusive governance and the strategic use of digital tools to empower women in their communities.
Kaltun holds Master’s degrees in Governance and Regional Integration, and Project Planning and Management. As a 2025 I AM NALA Fellow, she has been recognized as one of Africa’s emerging women leaders in peace and security. Her work spans from community-level organizing to policy development, consistently advocating for systems that ensure women’s voices are heard in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Disclaimer: The viewpoints expressed by the authors do not necessarily reflect the opinions or perspectives of Somaliland Chronicle and its staff.
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