Somalia’s largest market, Bakara Market in the capital Mogadishu has been closed for the second day in a row as traders protest against a newly imposed tax on mobile money transactions. This market is a vital economic center for the country, and its shutdown has caused significant disruption. Videos shared on social media show hundreds of traders demonstrating in the streets, calling on the government to cancel the new tax.

The traders have expressed their frustration on local TV stations, highlighting the heavy tax burden they already face. They mentioned that taxes are collected not only in the market but also at the seaport, at various checkpoints within and outside of Mogadishu, and in other locations. The traders argue that the introduction of additional taxes would put an unbearable strain on their financial resources and threaten their economic stability.

In response to the growing unrest, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed the nation on Saturday. He urged traders to comply with the new tax requirements, reassuring them that the government is committed to addressing their concerns. The president emphasized that the authorities would work diligently to find solutions to ease the traders’ burdens. The situation highlights the tension between the government’s need to raise revenue and the traders’ struggle to maintain their livelihoods under increasing financial pressure. As protests