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Terror-hit Jazeera hotel re-opens in Somalia

Xinhua, November 29, 2015 Adjust font size:

Somalia's Jazeera Palace Hotel, which was attacked by terrorists in July that resulted in 15 deaths, including a Chinese embassy guard, re-opened for business on Sunday.

Jezeera Group Managing Director Abdikarim Siad said the new and improved Jazeera Palace has been re-launched as a symbol of the Somali people's commitment to peace, progress and prosperity.

"The speed in which we have got back-up and running is testament to the indomitable Somali spirit and the resilience of the Mogadishu business community," Siad said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

"We stand together with our brothers and sisters in Mali, Paris and everywhere else affected by the scourge of terrorism in refusing to be intimidated by it. We have spared no effort in getting it right and in making sure that our customers come first," he added.

Siad said the hotel management and staff understand the trauma of their fellow professionals in Bamako and the cafes, sports stadium and concert venue in Paris.

"Just like us they will not be beaten by terror and just like us they are back and open for business," he said.

Three Chinese officials were also injured in a huge bomb explosion by Somali militant group Al-Shabaab at the hotel, which then housed Kenyan, Chinese, Qatari and Egyptian embassies. It was also frequented by foreign dignitaries including senior Somali government officials.

The Al-Qaida linked military group said it was responding to assaults by an African Union force and the Somali government in southern Somalia.

Despite the best efforts of the terrorists who wish nothing but harm to Somalia, Mogadishu is now a bustling and thriving place to do business.

New enterprises, shops, cafes and restaurants are opening everyday. There are now around 8 flights arriving and leaving through the city's brand new airport terminal everyday.

Entrepreneurs, investors and professionals are also returning or training in Somalia's own internationally accredited universities to build a sustainable and prosperous peace across the country. Enditem