On the Front Line in Kismayo

Photos from the crucial Somali port city, after its liberation from the hands of al-Shabab.

DECEMBER 17, 2012

The exportation of charcoal, which constitutes Kismayo's largest industry, continues to be a contentious issue for local business owners who deny that any of the profits from these exports go to al-Shabab. Taxes and extortion of the charcoal trade was once thought to contribute as much as $50 million a year to the terrorist group al-Shabab.

AU-UN IST PHOTO / TOBIN JONES