Lido Beach is one of the most popular destinations for Mogadishu people who enjoy relaxing, swimming and free time. The beach attracts a diverse crowd, especially on weekends and holidays, including men, women, children, and seniors.
However, women who go to the beach to swim face serious challenges and are harassed by the biggest young men. There is growing concern about the ongoing abuse and abuse experienced by women underwater.
Faadumo Ahmed, one of the women who enjoy swimming, told Beeranmedia that she always feels unsafe whenever she visits the beach.
“I’m here and swimming and relaxing, but I don’t care freely. Young men are intentionally getting too close to us, and sometimes even touching us inappropriately. This is a recurring problem and no one will protect us,” she said.
Meanwhile, Mahad Muse, a young man who frequents Lido Beach, said he is always on alert whenever he accompanys his sisters.
“Today, I won’t swim. I came here with three sisters, and I decided to guard. Some boys are not respectful. They are forcibly dragging women into the water or undressing. Just a few days ago, I witnessed an incident in which a young girl was harassed and her clothes were torn apart in the middle of the ocean.
He believes the solution is to deploy security forces to the beach and enforce strict laws against criminals.
One of the biggest reasons why such incidents continue is the lack of law enforcement or coast guards to monitor the beach. Some believe it is necessary to implement strict regulations to combat sexual harassment.
Many argue that swimming is an important life skill that everyone should learn for underwater safety.
Will a safer environment encourage more women to swim in Lido Beach?
