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Somalia, a former Italian colony, has experienced a prolonged period of civil war after the government of President Siad Barre collapsed in January 1991.

Built in 1977 with Chinese assistance, Mogadishu's main ground was closed in 1991 when the country descended into anarchy after the overthrow of President Siad Barre's military regime.

Somaliland, which is not recognised by any other sovereign state, unilaterally declared independence from the rest of Somalia in 1991, following the collapse of the dictatorial regime in Somalia led by the late General Mohamed Siad Barre.

Clans fought against each other in the Somali civil war that started after the overthrow of long-time ruler Siad Barre in 1991 and the worst of the fighting continued until 2001.

Somalia plunged into civil war after feuding clan-based warlords toppled dictator Mohamed Siad Barre in 1991.