MOGADISHU — Somali-American Mayor Nadia Mohamed of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, arrived in Mogadishu on Friday for an official visit aimed at strengthening ties between Somalia and its diaspora communities.
Mohamed was received at Aden Abdulle International Airport by senior Somali government officials, including ministers, lawmakers, and representatives from both federal and regional administrations, alongside members of the public.
She is the first Somali, Muslim, and Black woman to be elected mayor of St. Louis Park, a milestone she has described as a reflection of growing Somali participation in leadership, public service, and political representation abroad.
Banadir Regional Administration Deputy Mayor for Security and Politics, Mohamed Ahmed Diiriye (Yabooh), said the visit underscores the importance of strengthening links between Mogadishu and diaspora-led municipalities such as St. Louis Park.
He added that Mohamed’s visit also highlights the recognition of Somali citizens who have achieved leadership positions internationally, noting that such accomplishments serve as an inspiration for young Somalis.
Mohamed is expected to hold meetings with senior Somali leaders during her stay, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.
The welcoming ceremony was attended by Acting Speaker of the House of the People Sadiya Yasin Haji Samatar, federal ministers, members of parliament, and officials from both federal and regional administrations, as well as cultural figures and members of the Barbaarta Gashaaman cultural group.
Her visit comes as Somalia continues to emphasize the role of its diaspora in governance, development, and international engagement, particularly in strengthening institutional links and knowledge exchange.
