HARGEISA (SD) – The outgoing President of Somaliland, Muse Bihi Abdi, officially inaugurated the WAAHEEN commercial market this afternoon, which has undergone extensive reconstruction.

The President conducted a brief inspection of the modern buildings constructed in the WAAHEEN market, following the devastating fire that struck the market in early April 2022. He observed the new buildings and the comprehensive safety measures put in place for the protection of people and property.

During a brief ceremony held there, various speeches were delivered by the experts who oversaw the construction of the market, representatives speaking on behalf of the market property owners, and different government officials and agencies. They thoroughly explained the phases the market went through and how the modern buildings, comparable to other markets, were successfully implemented.

President Muse Bihi Abdi, in a brief speech at the ceremony, thanked everyone who contributed to the reconstruction of the market and the establishment of tall buildings that meet all market requirements.

The newly inaugurated WAAHEEN commercial market comprises 24 sections with a total of 644 (six hundred and forty-four) modern shops. The market has been completed with roads, customer parking areas, and measures for the safety of property and goods to be placed there.

President-elect Abdirahman Irro and the mayor of Hargeisa Abdikarim Moge have not been invited to the ceremony, perhaps relating to the recent presidential elections in Somaliland which Bihi and his party lost decisively.