Somalis Raise $300,000 To Build House For Former President Farmaajo In Rare Public Gesture
✍️ By Teju/ February 13, 2026/ 11:22am
In a rare and heartfelt demonstration of public appreciation, Somali citizens both at home and abroad have raised approximately $300,000 to build a private residence for former President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, widely known as Farmaajo.
The initiative, which began in June 2022, was funded entirely through voluntary donations from ordinary Somalis and members of the diaspora. The campaign aimed to construct a new home for Farmaajo after he revealed that he did not own a permanent residence in the capital, Mogadishu, following the end of his presidency in May 2022.
The house, built on a 120 x 140 square metre plot near the coastal city of Marka, was officially inaugurated on 6 February 2026 and has been named “Thank You, Mr President”.
In a message of gratitude shared on social media, Farmaajo thanked Somalis who contributed to the project, including civilians and members of the security forces, praising their generosity and support.
Supporters of Farmaajo have pointed to his leadership style, including efforts to improve national security and elevate Somalia’s image abroad, as reasons for their contributions. Unlike some nations where former leaders receive generous pensions and post-office allowances, in Somalia this practice is rare, making the public-funded home an extraordinary act of popular appreciation.
The house stands near the city of Marka, a historic coastal town that also holds symbolic significance as the home of Somalia’s first President, Aden Abdulle Hassan.
Whether seen as a generous tribute or an unusual political gesture, the fundraising and construction effort has captured attention both inside and outside Somalia, highlighting the complex and emotional connection between some citizens and their former leader.
