Somalia Bans Use of Face Masks in Capital, Over Insecurity

Authorities in Somalia have banned the wearing of face masks in the capital, Mogadishu, due to security concerns.

The spokesperson of the Mogadishu administration, Salah Dheere, said that the wearing of masks was being used to hide identities and facilitate criminal activities.

The masks were widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities also outlawed the wearing of hats and the carrying of weapons on public transport.

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However, traditional Sunnah hats worn by elders are exempt from the ban.

The decision was made during a recent security meeting in Mogadishu, chaired by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Somalia has been plagued by insecurity for years, with the main threats emanating from the al-Shabaab militant group.

The al-Qaeda-affiliated group has stepped up attacks in a show of resurgence since President Mohammad’s government launched an offensive against the group in August 2022.