Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson said on Saturday he was saddened to see the aftermath of a massive fire that ripped through Waaheen Market in Hargeisa on Friday and pledged that the UK would support Somaliland’s reconstruction efforts.
Hargeisa(HNN):-“Saddened to see the aftermath of the fire in Hargeisa with such destruction in the market that is the economic heart of the city, affecting many small and family enterprises,” he tweeted. “Your city will rise again and the UK will do what we can to support Somaliland’s rebuilding effort,”.
Videos and images circulated on social media showed a blaze that tore through Waaheen Market in the center of Hargeisa as people scrambled to recover their possessions. Crowds of people rushed to the area on Friday night to help firefighters put out the flames which caused millions of dollars worth damage to shops and other businesses. read more
Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi said 28 people were injured by the fire and that his government earmarked $1 million to mitigate the impact of the blaze which has left apocalyptic scenes in Hargeisa market.
UK Foreign Minister Liz Truss said her government was working was working with authorities in Hargeisa to provide support.
“Terrible news about the devastating fire in Hargeisa, Somaliland – it has now been brought under control. The UK is working with authorities and international partners to seek to provide support. My thoughts are with those affected,” she said.