A massive fire erupted in the heart of Wajaale district, situated on the border between Somaliland and Ethiopia, on the evening of September 16, causing extensive damage to the city’s main market. This critical trade hub accounts for nearly 80% of trade between Ethiopia and Somaliland, making the incident of significant concern to both nations.
Eyewitnesses who shared images on social media highlighted the devastating aftermath of the fire, which left hundreds of businesses and shops in ruins. While the blaze consumed properties and goods, the Wajale Fire Brigade mobilized to battle the inferno. Meanwhile, assistance from Hargeisa was en route to reinforce the firefighting efforts in Wajaale.
One glaring issue that compounded the situation was the reported lack of adequate firefighting equipment in the city. This hindered the firefighting teams’ efforts as they grappled with the relentless flames. Desperate residents joined the battle, attempting to salvage goods from the engulfed companies and shops.
As of now, authorities have not confirmed the cause of the fire or reported any casualties, offering a glimmer of hope amid the chaos. Nonetheless, the blaze has had immediate repercussions. Security has been heightened in the area, and transportation and business activities have suffered disruptions that are expected to persist even after the fire is brought under control.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the Republic of Somaliland is closely monitoring the situation. In a statement, they confirmed the incident and noted, “No casualties have been reported, but the damage to the market is extensive.”
This devastating fire in Wajaale marks another addition to a series of market fires that have plagued the region in recent years, causing immense economic and social disruption. In April 2022, the Waheen Market in Hargeisa suffered an estimated $2 billion in damages, affecting over 17,000 workers and destroying 2,000 businesses. Similar fires occurred at the Taywanka Market in Jigjiga, a town in eastern Ethiopia’s Somali region, in July, and at Mogadishu’s main market, Bakara, in January.
The repercussions of this latest incident are expected to ripple through the region, impacting cross-border travel between Tog Wajaale and adjacent settlements in Ethiopia’s Somali Region. Additionally, smoke from the fire is likely to worsen air quality in the area over the short term.
Authorities have urged residents and travelers to avoid the incident site until the fire is fully extinguished, and the area is cleared. Those with respiratory illnesses or conditions that may be exacerbated by smoke exposure are advised to remain indoors until the situation improves.
