Mogadishu, Somalia – A devastating blaze ripped through Bakara Market, the largest and busiest market in Somalia, on Monday evening, causing significant destruction and losses.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire started in a single shop during Maghrib prayers and quickly spread to nearby stalls and structures.
Thick smoke engulfed the market as shopkeepers and bystanders scrambled to contain the flames and salvage goods.
The extent of the damage remains unclear, but many traders have reported substantial losses as the fire swept through densely packed sections of the market.
As of Tuesday morning, Somali authorities had yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Bakara Market, a vital economic artery in Mogadishu, is known for its tightly clustered stalls, which often complicate firefighting efforts.
Emergency responders were seen on site, though efforts to control the fire were hampered by limited access and infrastructure.
Many residents have called on the government to urgently improve fire safety measures and emergency preparedness in the capital’s commercial districts.
