Mogadishu is the capital city of Somalia, situated on the eastern coast of Africa. It is one of the oldest cities in Africa and displays a rich blend of historic and contemporary influences. It is the country's economic, transportation, and cultural center. Since ancient times, Mogadishu has been a center for commerce and has influenced other cities around the globe. It is known for its striking medieval architecture and rapidly developing modern structures. Some of the places that make it famous include the beautiful ancient buildings, Mogadishu Lighthouse, Jazeera Beach, and the Hamar Weyne Market.

Census in Somalia is challenging due to the political instability but estimates suggest that Mogadishu has a population of about 2.5 million. Mogadishu is considered to be very diverse, with a mix of Somalis, Arabs, Persians, and Italians. It is also diverse in terms of religion - while the majority of the population is Muslim, there are also small Christian communities. Mogadishu is home to people who speak multiple languages, including Somali, Arabic, Italian, and English. Mogadishu's oldest district, the Hamar Weyne, is believed to date back to the 13th century. Mogadishu is also known for its resilient spirit, with the city making significant strides in rebuilding and redevelopment after years of civil war.

The administration in Mogadishu is two-tiered, including citywide and district administrations. The citywide administration is led by the Mayor of Mogadishu, who is appointed by the President of Somalia. The district administration is carried out by local district commissioners. The Mayor's Office is responsible for strategic planning, policing, most aspects of transport, and economic development. On the other hand, the district commissioners are responsible for local services not overseen by the Mayor's Office, such as local planning, schools, social services, local roads and waste management.

Mogadishu has always been a commercial city and today is the major economic hub of Somalia. The city thrives in trade and commerce, with a vibrant culture steeped in entrepreneurship. It is a key location for many national and international businesses, with the largest sectors being telecommunications, construction, and import/export. The Port of Mogadishu is crucial to the city's economy, handling millions of tons of cargo every year.

Mogadishu has witnessed significant infrastructural development over the past decade. The city is currently undergoing a rapid construction boom, with new roads, buildings, and other infrastructure being built. The city has also seen improvements in water and electricity provision. However, there is still a significant need for further investment, particularly in areas such as sewage infrastructure, digital connectivity, and public transportation. The private sector plays a key role in this ongoing development, with many businesses investing in the city's infrastructure.