Why this cash machine is causing confusion

The first cash machine installed in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu, was causing confusion yesterday among customers who had never used one before.

The automated teller machine (ATM), installed in a hotel by Salaam Somali Bank, allows customers to withdraw only US dollars.

The development of Somalia’s banking sector has been slowed by more than two decades of conflict.

The Somali currency, the shilling, is said to be almost worthless, with most transactions taking place in US dollars. “We are planning to install more ATMs in Mogadishu,” said a spokesman for the bank.