Global Note: The Mayor of Mogadishu

Trying to lead Somalia’s war-ravaged capital, Mogadishu, can’t be easy. But new mayor Mohamed Dheere has a plan. First: improve security by requiring citizens to hand over their weapons. Critics say that won’t work in a city where civilians are wedged between warlords, Islamists and Ethiopian-backed forces, but Dheere’s staff insists disarmament is on track. Some businessmen have already handed over 25 boxes and 20 sacks filled with weapons such as Kalashnikov rifles, and 150 firms have pledged to do the same. Dheere’s next test? Protecting those who can no longer protect themselves.