Mogadishu, Somalia – The European Union mission in Somalia, led by EU Ambassador Francesca Di Mauro, joined forces on Sunday in Mogadishu for a community clean-up campaign aimed at promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment in the capital.
Ambassador Di Mauro, together with staff from various EU institutions and partner organizations, rolled up their sleeves to collect waste and raise awareness on the importance of responsible waste management. The initiative was part of the EU’s broader commitment to supporting environmental resilience and sustainable urban living in Somalia.
Participants emphasized that Mogadishu, a city facing rapid population growth and climate-related challenges, requires urgent and practical measures to tackle urban waste. The EU delegation highlighted that keeping the capital clean is not just about aesthetics but also about public health, climate adaptation, and restoring dignity to communities.
“The EU is proud to stand with the people of Somalia in addressing environmental challenges. Protecting our environment is protecting our future,” Ambassador Di Mauro said during the exercise.
The clean-up drive also reflected a growing effort by international partners to complement the Somali government’s initiatives on waste management, climate adaptation, and environmental sustainability. Local residents welcomed the campaign, noting that visible participation from diplomats and aid partners helps set a positive example for the community.
Sunday’s activity was not only symbolic but also a call to action, urging citizens, civil society, and the private sector to take ownership of Somalia’s environmental future. The EU mission pledged to continue backing programs that strengthen climate resilience, reduce pollution, and create greener urban spaces.