Hargeisa, Somaliland, December 2023 – In a bid to bolster fire safety, VNG International has recently supplied 182 pieces of critical firefighting equipment to the local authorities in Hargeisa and Burao. This initiative is part of the broader DANWADAAG programme, aimed at reinforcing government legitimacy through efficient and effective disaster risk management (DRM).

April 2022 marked a dark chapter in Somaliland's history, as the bustling Waaheen Market in Hargeisa suffered a catastrophic fire. This disaster, causing an estimated financial damage of 1.5–2 billion USD, deeply affected the local economy and posed significant challenges to the region's recovery and rebuilding efforts.
In the wake of this disaster, the Danwadaag programme, as part of its adaptive strategies in times of crisis, took swift action. Following close consultation with local authorities, VNG International, as a lead agency, facilitated a need-based intervention to address the pressing issue of fire safety enhancements.
The core of this intervention lies in the procurement and distribution of 182  fire extinguishers to the local authorities in Hargeisa and Burao. These firefighting tools are designated for local district offices, strategically positioned to serve as safety preparedness. The underlying goal is not just the distribution of essential firefighting equipment but, crucially, to represent beacons of safety and preparedness, aiming to spark a broader cultural shift towards heightened fire safety awareness and implementation.
This intervention empowers local authorities to take the lead in Disaster Risk Management services, fostering a model of proactive safety measures. The hope is that these authorities, by modeling proactive safety measures, will serve as catalysts, inspiring businesses and communities to emulate and strengthen their own disaster risk management protocols. This approach is not merely a reaction to a crisis but a visionary step towards fostering a resilient and prepared community.
The intervention is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Rather, it is finely tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of Somaliland community. By acknowledging and adapting to the unique challenges and dynamics in Somaliland, the initiative seeks to enhance both the effectiveness and sustainability of disaster risk management initiatives.
In essence, Danwadaag’s intervention transcends the immediate relief efforts to the Waaheen Market fire. It embodies a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy, aiming not only to heal the wounds inflicted by the disaster, but also to fortify the community against future adversities. Through such targeted and community-tailored initiatives, there is a genuine prospect of rebuilding not just structures but resilience and hope within the fabric of Somaliland.

Author: Mohamed Dubbe