Hargeisa, Somaliland: A devastating fire swept through a bustling market in Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, on Monday, destroying over 500 small shops and causing significant economic damage. This tragic incident comes just two years after a similar inferno ravaged the Waaheen market, the region’s largest commercial hub, raising serious concerns about fire safety and urban planning in the republic.

The blaze broke out in a market located near the headquarters of Somaliland’s state radio and television, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and leaving behind a trail of destruction. According to Hargeisa’s deputy mayor, the fire caused substantial economic losses, though the exact figure remains undetermined. The incident has dealt another severe blow to the region’s already fragile commercial sector, which is still recovering from the 2023 Waaheen market disaster.

Firefighters Prevent Further Catastrophe

Firefighters responded quickly to the scene, working tirelessly to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to the state broadcaster’s headquarters and nearby residential areas. Their efforts were largely successful, averting what could have been an even greater tragedy. However, the damage to the market was extensive, with hundreds of small businesses reduced to ashes.

Overcrowding and Fire Risks Ignored

Government officials have long warned about the dangers of overcrowding in Hargeisa’s markets, citing the high risk of fires and their potential economic consequences. Despite these warnings, little was done to address the issue. The market’s densely packed tin and wood structures, combined with inadequate spacing and safety measures, created a tinderbox environment.

Authorities had previously pledged to implement reforms following the 2023 Waaheen market fire, which prompted a redesign of the market to improve safety. However, the latest incident highlights the failure to enforce similar measures in other commercial areas, leaving them vulnerable to disaster.

President Visits Scene, Pledges Support

Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Irro) visited the site of the fire to assess the damage and express his solidarity with the affected traders and residents. In a statement, he assured the public of the government’s commitment to supporting those impacted by the tragedy.

“This is a difficult time for our people, but we will stand together to rebuild and recover,”

President Irro said. He also called on wealthy individuals and organizations to contribute to relief efforts, emphasizing the need for collective action to address the crisis.

Cause of the Fire Remains Unknown

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, with no official explanation provided as of yet. The incident has reignited concerns about fire safety standards in Somaliland’s markets, particularly in light of the 2023 Waaheen market fire, which was one of the worst disasters in the region’s recent history.

Following the Waaheen fire, the market was rebuilt with funds raised from across the region, incorporating design changes aimed at reducing fire risks. However, the latest blaze suggests that these improvements have not been extended to other commercial areas, leaving them exposed to similar dangers.

Economic Impact and Calls for Action

The destruction of over 500 shops is expected to have a significant impact on Hargeisa’s economy, particularly for small business owners who rely on the market for their livelihoods. Many of the affected traders had only recently recovered from the losses sustained in the 2023 fire.

The incident has sparked renewed calls for urgent action to improve fire safety and urban planning in Somaliland’s markets. Experts and officials are urging the government to enforce stricter regulations, reduce overcrowding, and invest in modern infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.

As the community begins the arduous process of rebuilding, questions remain about how such a disaster could occur again so soon after the Waaheen market fire. The incident underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to protect Somaliland’s commercial sector and ensure the safety of its citizens.

Source: SLNTV