Impact of lack of public green areas on the living conditions of Mogadishu's residents

Lately, the functions of urban greenings including recreational use, aesthetics and resting areas are at the top of the expectations of the society. These green areas in the cities reduce energy use, facilitate cooling effects, and improve water and air quality. The protection of green areas is also important for the sustainability of biodiversity and wildlife. The green areas in the cities, consisting of vegetation, trees and tree groups that are naturally found in the city or artificially established, are to be established, protected and managed in accordance with the public interest. This thesis investigates the impact of urban green areas (UGAs) on the socio-economic, environmental, and health aspects of urban life in Mogadishu, Somalia. Employing a mixed-method approach, this study combined a face-to-face survey of Mogadishu residents with GIS-based analysis using the i-Tree Canopy tool to assess spatio-temporal changes in the city's green cover between 2002 and 2023.Survey results indicated that accessible and well-maintained green spaces significantly improve residents' mental and physical health, foster social interactions, and contribute to economic benefits such as increased property values and enhanced local business opportunities. Meanwhile, i-Tree analysis revealed a concerning decrease in green cover over the study period, with a corresponding increase in impervious surfaces. This reduction in green spaces is associated with diminished ecological services, such as carbon sequestration, and exacerbates challenges like the urban heat island effect. The findings emphasize the critical role of UGAs in enhancing urban resilience and improving quality of life in post-conflict settings. The study advocates for strategic urban planning and policy initiatives that prioritize the preservation and expansion of green spaces, which are crucial not only for environmental sustainability but also for promoting social cohesion and economic prosperity in Mogadishu. The thesis presented recommendations for urban planners and local government to integrate comprehensive green space planning into Mogadishu's broader urban development agenda, ensuring sustainable and livable urban environments.