Nestled just beyond the bustling edges of Somalia’s capital city, the Darus Salam Zoo provides locals with a rare opportunity to witness the wonders of the wild right in their backyard. “We began with a single croc, but now we’ve got over a century’s worth of diverse critters,” remarked Muhammad Abd Rahman, the zoo’s custodian. “From majestic lions to cunning foxes, prickly porcupines to quick-footed hares—our zoo is a jungle in its own right, albeit sans leopards and cheetahs.” Rahman, who nurtures many animals from birth, often draws applause from patrons for his seamless bond with the creatures.
“When the lions hear my voice, they know it’s me,” Rahman elaborated. “I reared them with care—feeding them milk and meat. I’m their familiar figure in a sea of strangers, kind of like a parental figure they cling to.” The zoo transforms into a living classroom, offering firsthand encounters with animals once only gazed upon through screens. “Seeing these majestic creatures live is a game-changer from the flatted images on TV,” expressed a young visitor with excitement. “It’s a pure joy for us Somali youth to finally have a place to unwind and soak up some fun with our kiddos. It’s quite the phenomenon!”
A nostalgic visitor reflected, “Darus Salam Zoo is our treasure trove. During our youth, these wild wonders were but mere myths—the conflict denied us zoos. Now, amidst the nation’s resurgence, we bask in our good fortune, beholding creatures we’d only heard tales about.” Signifying the tenacity and renewal of a nation long plagued by turmoil, Darus Salam Zoo is a living beacon of hope in the Horn of Africa.
Edited by: Ali Musa
Axadle international–Monitoring
