Somalia in High Speed Internet “Culture Shock”

The extremist group al-Shabab had ordered a stop to internet services in Somalia, but that has not dented Mogadishu residents’ appreciation for newly installed high-speed internet, suggests one internet provider to BBC News. Following the threat by al-Shabab, “3G networks nationwide were turned off but the project to launch fibre optic cable services continued in the capital, reports Moalimu Mohammed for BBC News. “People have been flocking to hotels and internet cafes to try out the fast service – some seeing video platforms like YouTube and social networking sites for the first time.” The high-speed internet will reduce communication costs, support businesses and education, and link the capital with a far-reaching Somalian diaspora. The report concludes that “Since 1991 Somalia has seen clan-based warlords, rival politicians and Islamist militants battle for control – a situation that has allowed lawlessness to flourish.” Assisted by Ethiopia and the Africa Union, the government controls only a small area around the capital and other areas north and south. – YaleGlobal