Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
In a milestone event, Somaliland’s President Muse Bihi Abdi inaugurated the newly reconstructed Waheen Market in Hargeisa on Saturday. The reopening marks a significant step in rebuilding the region’s economy after a devastating fire destroyed the market on April 10, 2022.
Rebuilding After Tragedy
The 2022 fire, triggered by an electrical fault, consumed 24 acres of Waheen Market, one of Somaliland’s largest commercial hubs. It impacted over 17,000 traders, many of whom were women, leaving a lasting economic void. The incident occurred amid severe drought and rising inflation, compounding existing hardships for the people of Somaliland.
President Bihi acknowledged the challenges faced in the aftermath, saying, “The fire not only destroyed the market but also disrupted the livelihoods of thousands who depended on it daily.”
Modern Infrastructure and Funding
The new Waheen Market, reconstructed with modern facilities, includes 24 sections and 644 shops. Key upgrades such as paved roads and designated parking areas aim to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the bustling marketplace.
The reconstruction, costing millions of dollars, was funded through contributions from Somaliland’s business community, the Somali diaspora, and neighboring Djibouti. Despite these efforts, President Bihi criticized the lack of support from wealthier nations. “Delegations came with cameras and words, but no material support. This shows that we must rely on ourselves,” he remarked during the inauguration ceremony.
A Testament to Resilience
Waheen Market’s reopening is more than a commercial revival—it symbolizes the resilience and resourcefulness of Somaliland’s people. Residents, traders, and shoppers celebrated the return of the market, which has long been a linchpin of economic activity in the Horn of Africa.
“This market is not just a place for trade; it’s a community lifeline,” said a local trader. The vibrant new space has already begun to restore livelihoods and rekindle the hope of a brighter future for the region.
A Broader Narrative of Self-Reliance
The reconstruction highlights a broader theme of self-reliance in Somaliland. Despite limited international support, the region has demonstrated its ability to overcome challenges through collective effort and local ingenuity.
As Somaliland continues to recover and rebuild, Waheen Market stands as a symbol of determination and a beacon of economic revival for the Horn of Africa.