KISMAAYO



March 1999 A generation of war-lords have made Somalia an archetype of natural disintegration and left the country in the power of tyrants.
As a result of the fighting between the various factions, extensive damage was incurred in the region. The damage from looting and abandonment is most evident in the towns and Kismayo is no exception.



Kismayo Airport, a former important Somali Airforce training base, is situated 10 km north-east of the town. It has a large abandoned and looted Administration building with a badly-maintained runway. .
Aircraft arrive from Kenya several times a week, including UNDP flights.
Security precautions at the airport are a joke with all parties wanting money or qat.
Kismayo’s large docks, situated on a Peninsula outside the town is of more recent construction and shows no noticeable major damage except for the normal unmaintained look.... The port, a naval base for the Ex-Somali navy, was built with assistance from USA before the war. It was a major gateway for Banana and Livestock exports.
As in many parts of Somalia, the road network in Kismayo is in a terrible state.
Parts of the town of Kismayo still show the scars of the destruction which took place during the wars.



Many dwellings, public buildings and business premises were destroyed.



Now, with the return of relative peace in the area, people are starting to rebuild their houses and a small local construction business is evident.

There is only one hospital in Kismayo, maintained with the generous assistance of Medecins Sans Frontiers (MSF) Belgium. There are 4 doctors and a small number of nurses. The hospital treats patients with Cholera, T.B., Malaria as well as many other diseases commonly found in the area. They also treat the wounded.

Accomodation can be had at a price but comfortable with running water and security.Ask for the ex harbour master.
The town is old and has a beauty in its history. If you can walk around enjoy the old arab buildings and the italian remains of colonialism!!



Transport to the Bajuni islands must be arranged here and boats are ( were ) available in Kismayo for rent.
Let the Somalis arrange the DEAL!!
Fuel and all supplies should be purchased in Kismayo as there is NOTHING on the islands.
A few of the local inhabitants have old and dicey scuba gear from........? Don't rely on any local dive gear.


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