Hargeisa: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 9°33′47″N 44°4′3″E / 9.56306°N 44.06750°E / 9.56306; 44.06750
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m Somaliland is internationally unrecognized, thus not a country. Says so on all primary sources.
Reverted to revision 775363131 by Rich Farmbrough (talk). (TW)
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{{pp|small=yes}}
{{pp|small=yes}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| official_name = Hargeisa
| official_name = Hargeisa
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| image_skyline = Hargcity.jpg
| image_skyline = Hargcity.jpg
| imagesize = 250px
| imagesize = 250px
| pushpin_map = Somalia
| pushpin_map = Somaliland
| pushpin_label_position = right
| pushpin_label_position = right
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Somalia's region of Somaliland
| pushpin_map_caption = Location in Somaliland
| pushpin_relief = yes
| pushpin_relief = yes
| coordinates = {{coord|9|33|47|N|44|4|3|E|region:SO-Mu|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|9|33|47|N|44|4|3|E|region:SO-Mu|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type1 = Autonomous Region
| subdivision_type1 = Country
| subdivision_name1 = {{flag|Somaliland}}
| subdivision_name1 = {{flag|Somaliland}}
| subdivision_name2 = [[Somaliland]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Somaliland]]
| subdivision_type3 = Country
| subdivision_type3 =
| subdivision_name3 = {{flag|Somalia}}
| subdivision_name3 =
| subdivision_name4 = Somalia
| government_footnotes =
| government_footnotes =
| government_type =
| government_type =
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==History==
==History==

===Prehistory===
===Prehistory===
[[File:Laas Geel.jpg|200px|thumb|Rock art from the [[Laas Geel]] complex on the outskirts of Hargeisa.]]
[[File:Laas Geel.jpg|200px|thumb|Rock art from the [[Laas Geel]] complex on the outskirts of Hargeisa.]]
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===British Somaliland===
===British Somaliland===

[[File:The National Archives UK - CO 1069-3-179.jpg|thumb|right|Women's market in Hargeisa, [[British Somaliland]] [[protectorate]].]]
[[File:The National Archives UK - CO 1069-3-179.jpg|thumb|right|Women's market in Hargeisa, [[British Somaliland]] [[protectorate]].]]
In 1888, after signing successive treaties with the then ruling [[Somali people|Somali]] [[Sultan]]s such as [[Mohamoud Ali Shire]] of the [[Warsangali Sultanate]], the British established a [[protectorate]] in the region referred to as [[British Somaliland]].<ref>Hugh Chisholm (ed.), ''The encyclopædia britannica: a dictionary of arts, sciences, literature and general information'', Volume 25, (At the University press: 1911), p.383.</ref> The British garrisoned the protectorate from [[Aden Settlement|Aden]] in present-day [[Yemen]], and administered it from their [[British Indian Empire|British India]] until 1898. British Somaliland was then administered by the [[Foreign Office]] until 1905 and afterwards by the [[Colonial Office]].
In 1888, after signing successive treaties with the then ruling [[Somali people|Somali]] [[Sultan]]s such as [[Mohamoud Ali Shire]] of the [[Warsangali Sultanate]], the British established a [[protectorate]] in the region referred to as [[British Somaliland]].<ref>Hugh Chisholm (ed.), ''The encyclopædia britannica: a dictionary of arts, sciences, literature and general information'', Volume 25, (At the University press: 1911), p.383.</ref> The British garrisoned the protectorate from [[Aden Settlement|Aden]] in present-day [[Yemen]], and administered it from their [[British Indian Empire|British India]] until 1898. British Somaliland was then administered by the [[Foreign Office]] until 1905 and afterwards by the [[Colonial Office]].
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[[Berbera]], a major trading harbour on the [[Red Sea]], was the protectorate's first capital due to its strategic importance. However, the capital was moved from Berbera to Hargeisa, and the city was granted capital status in 1941. During the [[East African Campaign (World War II)|East African Campaign]], the protectorate was [[The Italian Invasion of British Somaliland|occupied by Italy]] in August 1940, but recaptured by the British in March 1941.
[[Berbera]], a major trading harbour on the [[Red Sea]], was the protectorate's first capital due to its strategic importance. However, the capital was moved from Berbera to Hargeisa, and the city was granted capital status in 1941. During the [[East African Campaign (World War II)|East African Campaign]], the protectorate was [[The Italian Invasion of British Somaliland|occupied by Italy]] in August 1940, but recaptured by the British in March 1941.


The protectorate gained its independence on 26 June 1960 as the [[State of Somaliland]],<ref name="nytimes6">{{Cite news |title=Somaliland Marks Independence After 73 Years of British Rule |url=https://select.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F00A10FB395A1A7A93C4AB178DD85F448685F9 |format=fee required |publisher=The New York Times |page=6 |date=1960-06-26 |accessdate=2008-06-20}}</ref><ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-10740852 |work=BBC News |title=How Britain said farewell to its Empire |date=2010-07-23}}</ref> before uniting as planned days later with the [[Trust Territory of Somaliland]] (the former [[Italian Somaliland]]) to form the [[Somali Republic]].<ref name="Encybr">Encyclopaedia Britannica, ''The New Encyclopaedia Britannica'', (Encyclopaedia Britannica: 2002), p.835</ref>
The protectorate gained its independence on 26 June 1960 as the [[State of Somaliland]],<ref name="nytimes6">{{Cite news |title=Somaliland Marks Independence After 73 Years of British Rule |url=https://select.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=F00A10FB395A1A7A93C4AB178DD85F448685F9 |format=fee required |publisher=The New York Times |page=6 |date=1960-06-26 |accessdate=2008-06-20}}</ref><ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-10740852 |work=BBC News |title=How Britain said farewell to its Empire |date=2010-07-23}}</ref> before uniting as planned days later with the [[Trust Territory of Somaliland]] (the former [[Italian Somaliland]]) to form the [[Somali Republic]].<ref name="Encyclopædia Britannica 2002 p.835"/>


===1960–1980s===
===1960–1980s===

[[File:Hargeysa plane monument2.jpg|thumb|right|190px|[[Hargeisa War Memorial|MiG monument in Hargeisa]] commemorating the Somaliland's breakaway from the rest of Somalia during the 1980s.<ref>{{cite news|title=Close Residents of Somaliland sit under a war memorial of a MiG fighter jet in the centre of town in Hargeisa|url=http://www.trust.org/item/20130519152736-07z9a/?source=search&view=quickview|accessdate=11 February 2014|newspaper=Reuters|date=19 May 2013}}</ref>]]
[[File:Hargeysa plane monument2.jpg|thumb|right|190px|[[Hargeisa War Memorial|MiG monument in Hargeisa]] commemorating the Somaliland's breakaway from the rest of Somalia during the 1980s.<ref>{{cite news|title=Close Residents of Somaliland sit under a war memorial of a MiG fighter jet in the centre of town in Hargeisa|url=http://www.trust.org/item/20130519152736-07z9a/?source=search&view=quickview|accessdate=11 February 2014|newspaper=Reuters|date=19 May 2013}}</ref>]]
In the post-independence period, Hargeisa was administered as the capital of the [[Woqooyi Galbeed]] province of Somalia. Numerous new development projects were subsequently launched in the city by the Somali government. Among these initiatives was the creation in 1977 of the [[Hargeisa Provincial Museum]]. It was the first museum to be established in Somalia since independence in 1960.<ref name="mi1">{{cite journal|doi=10.1111/j.1468-0033.1986.tb00633.x|title=The Provincial Museum of Hargeisa|author=Cobelj, Stefanja|work=Museum International|date=April 24, 2009}}</ref> The [[Hargeisa International Airport]] was also renovated and modernized, with the ultimate aim of equipping the facility to accommodate larger aircraft and offer more flight destinations.<ref name="Eiugb">Economist Intelligence Unit (Great Britain), ''Country report: Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti'', (The Unit: 1986), p.43.</ref>
In the post-independence period, Hargeisa was administered as the capital of the [[Woqooyi Galbeed]] province of Somalia. Numerous new development projects were subsequently launched in the city by the Somali government. Among these initiatives was the creation in 1977 of the [[Hargeisa Provincial Museum]]. It was the first museum to be established in Somalia since independence in 1960.<ref name="mi1">{{cite journal|doi=10.1111/j.1468-0033.1986.tb00633.x|title=The Provincial Museum of Hargeisa|author=Cobelj, Stefanja|work=Museum International|date=April 24, 2009}}</ref> The [[Hargeisa International Airport]] was also renovated and modernized, with the ultimate aim of equipping the facility to accommodate larger aircraft and offer more flight destinations.<ref name="Eiugb">Economist Intelligence Unit (Great Britain), ''Country report: Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti'', (The Unit: 1986), p.43.</ref>
[[File:Hargeisa airport.jpg|thumb|left|[[Hargeisa International Airport]]]]
[[File:Hargeisa airport.jpg|thumb|left|[[Hargeisa International Airport]]]]


⚫
After fallout from the unsuccessful [[Ogaden War|Ogaden campaign]] of the late 1970s, the ruling socialist government of the [[Somali Democratic Republic]] under Major General [[Mohamed Siad Barre]] began arresting government and military officials under suspicion of participation in an abortive 1978 coup d'état.<ref name="Ararep">''ARR: Arab report and record'', (Economic Features, ltd.: 1978), p.602.</ref><ref name="Ahmed">{{cite web|last=Ahmed III|first=Abdul|title=Brothers in Arms Part I|url=http://wardheernews.com/Articles_2011/Oct/29_Brothers_in_Army_abdul.pdf|publisher=WardheerNews|accessdate=February 28, 2012}}</ref> Most of the people who had allegedly helped plot the putsch were summarily executed.<ref name="Npmc">New People Media Centre, ''New people'', Issues 94–105, (New People Media Centre: Comboni Missionaries, 2005).</ref> However, several officials managed to escape abroad and started to form the first of various dissident groups dedicated to ousting Barre's administration by force.<ref name="Fitzgerald">Nina J. Fitzgerald, ''Somalia: issues, history, and bibliography'', (Nova Publishers: 2002), p.25.</ref>

⚫
After fallout from the unsuccessful [[Ogaden War|Ogaden campaign]] of the late 1970s, the ruling socialist government of the [[Somali Democratic Republic]] under Major General [[Mohamed Siad Barre]] began arresting government and military officials under suspicion of participation in an abortive 1978 coup d'état.<ref name="Ararep">''ARR: Arab report and record'', (Economic Features, ltd.: 1978), p.602.</ref><ref name="Ahmed">{{cite web|last=Ahmed III|first=Abdul|title=Brothers in Arms Part I|url=http://wardheernews.com/Articles_2011/Oct/29_Brothers_in_Army_abdul.pdf|publisher=WardheerNews|accessdate=February 28, 2012}}</ref> Most of the people who had allegedly helped plot the putsch were summarily executed.<ref name="Npmc">New People Media Centre, ''New people'', Issues 94–105, (New People Media Centre: Comboni Missionaries, 2005).</ref> However, several officials managed to escape abroad and started to form the first of various dissident groups dedicated to ousting Barre's administration by force.<ref name="Fitzgerald">Nina J. Fitzgerald, ''Somalia: issues, history, and bibliography'', (Nova Publishers: 2002), p.25.</ref>


Among these rebel outfits was the [[Somali National Movement]] (SNM), which was supported by [[Ethiopia]]'s then ruling [[Derg]] communist regime. By the late 1980s, the insurgent group had managed to capture Hargeisa, prompting air strikes by government forces. The ensuing bombing raids and crossfire claimed thousands of casualties and destroyed much of the city.<ref name="Cadogi">{{cite book|last=Jimcaale|first=Cabdirahman|title=Consolidation and decentralization of government institutions|year=2002|publisher=Academy for Peace and Development|page=19|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=82kWAQAAIAAJ}}</ref>
Among these rebel outfits was the [[Somali National Movement]] (SNM), which was supported by [[Ethiopia]]'s then ruling [[Derg]] communist regime. By the late 1980s, the insurgent group had managed to capture Hargeisa, prompting air strikes by government forces. The ensuing bombing raids and crossfire claimed thousands of casualties and destroyed much of the city.<ref name="Cadogi">{{cite book|last=Jimcaale|first=Cabdirahman|title=Consolidation and decentralization of government institutions|year=2002|publisher=Academy for Peace and Development|page=19|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=82kWAQAAIAAJ}}</ref>


===Reconstruction===
===Reconstruction===

[[File:Hargskyl1.jpg|thumb|right|A residential area in Hargeisa.]]
[[File:Hargskyl1.jpg|thumb|right|A residential area in Hargeisa.]]
After the collapse of the Somali central government and the start of the [[Somali Civil War|civil war]] in 1991, SNM secessionists in the northwestern part of the country unilaterally declared independence. A slow process of infrastructural reconstruction subsequently began in Hargeisa and other towns in the region.
After the collapse of the Somali central government and the start of the [[Somali Civil War|civil war]] in 1991, SNM secessionists in the northwestern part of the country unilaterally declared independence. A slow process of infrastructural reconstruction subsequently began in Hargeisa and other towns in the region.
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==Geography==
==Geography==

===Location and habitat===
===Location and habitat===


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===Climate===
===Climate===

Hargeisa has a [[Desert climate|semi-arid climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]]: ''BSh''). The city generally features warm winters and hot summers. However, despite its location in the tropics, due to the high altitude Hargeisa seldom experiences either very hot or very cold weather. This is a trait rarely seen in regions with a semi-arid climates. The city receives the bulk of its precipitation between the months of April and September, averaging just under {{convert|400|mm|in}} of rainfall annually. Average monthly temperatures in Hargeisa range from {{convert|18|C|0}} in the months of December and January to {{convert|24|C|0}} in the month of June.
Hargeisa has a [[Desert climate|semi-arid climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]]: ''BSh''). The city generally features warm winters and hot summers. However, despite its location in the tropics, due to the high altitude Hargeisa seldom experiences either very hot or very cold weather. This is a trait rarely seen in regions with a semi-arid climates. The city receives the bulk of its precipitation between the months of April and September, averaging just under {{convert|400|mm|in}} of rainfall annually. Average monthly temperatures in Hargeisa range from {{convert|18|C|0}} in the months of December and January to {{convert|24|C|0}} in the month of June.


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==Demographics==
==Demographics==

In 2005 according to the UNDP the city had a population of 560,028,<ref>https://docs.unocha.org/sites/dms/Somalia/UNDP-POP-RURAL-URBAN%202005.pdf</ref> while according to CIA factbook, Hargeisa has estimated population of around 760,000 as of 2015.<ref name="Cwfsom"/> In It is the 700th largest city in the world by population size. The urban area occupies {{convert|75|km2}}, with a population density of {{convert|12600|PD/km2}}.<ref name="Cwfsom"/> It is primarily inhabited by the [[Isaaq]] [[Somali clan]].
In 2005 according to the UNDP the city had a population of 560,028,<ref>https://docs.unocha.org/sites/dms/Somalia/UNDP-POP-RURAL-URBAN%202005.pdf</ref> while according to CIA factbook, Hargeisa has estimated population of around 760,000 as of 2015.<ref name="Cwfsom"/> In It is the 700th largest city in the world by population size. The urban area occupies {{convert|75|km2}}, with a population density of {{convert|12600|PD/km2}}.<ref name="Cwfsom"/> It is primarily inhabited by the [[Isaaq]] [[Somali clan]].


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Hargeisa is the [[Finance|financial]] hub to many entrepreneurial industries ranging from gem stonecutters, to construction, food processing, retail, and import and export firms.<ref name="Jubba"/>
Hargeisa is the [[Finance|financial]] hub to many entrepreneurial industries ranging from gem stonecutters, to construction, food processing, retail, and import and export firms.<ref name="Jubba"/>


In June 2012, the Partnership Fund for the private sector in the Somaliland region was launched at Hargeisa's Ambassador Hotel. Part of the larger Partnership for Economic Growth program, the initiative will see $900,000 [[United States dollar|USD]] allocated to 13 private local businesses, as well as the creation of 250 new full-time jobs, half of which are to be earmarked for youth and one third for women.
In June 2012, the Partnership Fund for the private sector in the Somaliland region was launched at Hargeisa's Ambassador Hotel. Part of the larger Partnership for Economic Growth program, the initiative will see $900,000 [[United States dollar|USD]] allocated to 13 private local businesses, as well as the creation of 250 new full-time jobs, half of which are to be earmarked for youth and one third for women.


The fund is expected to improve job opportunities for 1,300 entrepreneurs through ameliorated product distribution and investment in new technologies and processing facilities. Eligibility is determined through a competitive and transparent selection process overseen by the Partnership program, the Somaliland Chamber of Commerce, and government officials.<ref name="Ultfgpftpsis">{{cite web|title=USAID launches the first grants program for the private sector in Somaliland |url=http://eastafrica.usaid.gov/en/USAID/Article/2909/USAID_launches_the_first_grants_program_for_the_private_sector_in_Somaliland |publisher=USAID |accessdate=18 July 2013 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218133422/http://eastafrica.usaid.gov/en/USAID/Article/2909/USAID_launches_the_first_grants_program_for_the_private_sector_in_Somaliland |archivedate=February 18, 2013 }}</ref>
The fund is expected to improve job opportunities for 1,300 entrepreneurs through ameliorated product distribution and investment in new technologies and processing facilities. Eligibility is determined through a competitive and transparent selection process overseen by the Partnership program, the Somaliland Chamber of Commerce, and government officials.<ref name="Ultfgpftpsis">{{cite web|title=USAID launches the first grants program for the private sector in Somaliland |url=http://eastafrica.usaid.gov/en/USAID/Article/2909/USAID_launches_the_first_grants_program_for_the_private_sector_in_Somaliland |publisher=USAID |accessdate=18 July 2013 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218133422/http://eastafrica.usaid.gov/en/USAID/Article/2909/USAID_launches_the_first_grants_program_for_the_private_sector_in_Somaliland |archivedate=February 18, 2013 }}</ref>


==Transportation==
==Transportation==

Buses are the most commonly used form of public transportation in Hargeisa. They travel on a number of routes serving nearly all of the city's districts. Intra-city bus services are also available, which connect Hargeisa to other major northern Somali cities and towns, including [[Burao]], [[Berbera]] and [[Borama]].
Buses are the most commonly used form of public transportation in Hargeisa. They travel on a number of routes serving nearly all of the city's districts. Intra-city bus services are also available, which connect Hargeisa to other major northern Somali cities and towns, including [[Burao]], [[Berbera]] and [[Borama]].
[[File:City of hargeisa (view).jpg|thumb|right|Vehicles on a main road in suburban Hargeisa.]]
[[File:City of hargeisa (view).jpg|thumb|right|Vehicles on a main road in suburban Hargeisa.]]
With the growth of urban development, several new [[taxi]] companies have sprung up in Hargeisa. They are the brainchild of local entrepreneurs and Somali expatriates who have returned to invest in their hometown. The firms provide high quality and secure taxi transportation to all parts of the city, and offer long-term employment opportunities. [[Raho City Taxi]] was the first of these new cab companies to begin operations in the region. {{As of|2012}}, it has a fleet of around 40 vehicles, which include small sedans and vans capable of accommodating up to seven passengers.<ref name="Tcihcjet">{{cite news|last=Dahir|first=Barkhad|title=Taxi companies in Hargeisa create jobs, ease travel|url=http://sabahionline.com/en_GB/articles/hoa/articles/features/2012/12/20/feature-02|accessdate=18 July 2013|newspaper=Sabahi|date=20 December 2012}}</ref>
With the growth of urban development, several new [[taxi]] companies have sprung up in Hargeisa. They are the brainchild of local entrepreneurs and Somali expatriates who have returned to invest in their hometown. The firms provide high quality and secure taxi transportation to all parts of the city, and offer long-term employment opportunities. [[Raho City Taxi]] was the first of these new cab companies to begin operations in the region. {{As of|2012}}, it has a fleet of around 40 vehicles, which include small sedans and vans capable of accommodating up to seven passengers.<ref name="Tcihcjet">{{cite news|last=Dahir|first=Barkhad|title=Taxi companies in Hargeisa create jobs, ease travel|url=http://sabahionline.com/en_GB/articles/hoa/articles/features/2012/12/20/feature-02|accessdate=18 July 2013|newspaper=Sabahi|date=20 December 2012}}</ref>


[[Hargeisa Taxi]] is another of the recent taxi firms based in Hargeisa. It has a fleet of four small compact cars and seven passenger minivans, in addition to around 19 other vehicles. GPS devices installed by the Sahal Technology firm allow the cab company's dispatch office to monitor its taxis to ensure that they travel within the speed limit. The office can also disable the vehicles online in the event of theft. Other new taxi firms serving Hargeisa include Dalhis Taxi and Marodi Jeh Taxi. Fares are inexpensive, costing between 15,000 and 18,000 [[Somaliland shilling]]s ($2–$3 USD) per ride,<ref name="Tcihcjet"/> with the national [[Somali shilling]] also widely accepted.<ref name="Fmrasgch">{{cite web|title=Finance Manager – Reporting & Sub Grant Compliance, Hargeisa|url=http://www.somalilandedu.com/students/jobs/70-finance-manager-reporting-a-sub-grant-compliance-hargeisa|publisher=Relief Web|accessdate=19 July 2013}}</ref>
[[Hargeisa Taxi]] is another of the recent taxi firms based in Hargeisa. It has a fleet of four small compact cars and seven passenger minivans, in addition to around 19 other vehicles. GPS devices installed by the Sahal Technology firm allow the cab company's dispatch office to monitor its taxis to ensure that they travel within the speed limit. The office can also disable the vehicles online in the event of theft. Other new taxi firms serving Hargeisa include Dalhis Taxi and Marodi Jeh Taxi. Fares are inexpensive, costing between 15,000 and 18,000 [[Somaliland shilling]]s ($2–$3 USD) per ride,<ref name="Tcihcjet"/> with the national [[Somali shilling]] also widely accepted.<ref name="Fmrasgch">{{cite web|title=Finance Manager – Reporting & Sub Grant Compliance, Hargeisa|url=http://www.somalilandedu.com/students/jobs/70-finance-manager-reporting-a-sub-grant-compliance-hargeisa|publisher=Relief Web|accessdate=19 July 2013}}</ref>
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==Education==
==Education==

[[File:Somalischoolroster.jpg|thumb|upright|A school roster board in Hargeisa.]]
[[File:Somalischoolroster.jpg|thumb|upright|A school roster board in Hargeisa.]]
Various primary schools and [[Nursery school|nurseries]] are dispersed throughout Hargeisa. There are also several state-run and privately owned [[secondary school|secondary]] and high schools in the city. Among these are the [[SOS Sheikh Secondary School]] and [[Abaarso School of Science and Technology]], the latter of which is the pre-eminent secondary institution in the area. Abaarso School is located about {{convert|8|mi|km|abbr=on|disp=flip}} west of Hargeisa.
Various primary schools and [[Nursery school|nurseries]] are dispersed throughout Hargeisa. There are also several state-run and privately owned [[secondary school|secondary]] and high schools in the city. Among these are the [[SOS Sheikh Secondary School]] and [[Abaarso School of Science and Technology]], the latter of which is the pre-eminent secondary institution in the area. Abaarso School is located about {{convert|8|mi|km|abbr=on|disp=flip}} west of Hargeisa.
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==Communication==
==Communication==

Hargeisa has a modern [[Telephone|telephone system]], with most urban residents enjoying mobile or landline access. As online service providers have grown, a number of [[internet café]]s have also sprung up throughout the city.
Hargeisa has a modern [[Telephone|telephone system]], with most urban residents enjoying mobile or landline access. As online service providers have grown, a number of [[internet café]]s have also sprung up throughout the city.


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==Notable residents==
==Notable residents==

*[[Hassan Dhuxul Laabsaalax]] - Founder and Poet of the Xidigaha Geeska.
*[[Hassan Dhuxul Laabsaalax]] - Founder and Poet of the Xidigaha Geeska.
*[[Maxamed Axmed Bakaal Cirro]] - Artist and Vice-manager of Xidigaha Geeska.
*[[Maxamed Axmed Bakaal Cirro]] - Artist and Vice-manager of Xidigaha Geeska.
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* [[Jamal Ali Hussein]] – Presidential Candidate [[For Justice and Development]] party.
* [[Jamal Ali Hussein]] – Presidential Candidate [[For Justice and Development]] party.
* [[Mohamed Hassan Saed]] – Founder of the National Youth Umbrella Organization SONYO, Former Director General Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Co-Founder of the first and Largest Private Security Company in East Africa Physical Risk Solutions PRS.
* [[Mohamed Hassan Saed]] – Founder of the National Youth Umbrella Organization SONYO, Former Director General Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Co-Founder of the first and Largest Private Security Company in East Africa Physical Risk Solutions PRS.
* [[Dr. Edna Adan]] – Founder and Chairman of the [[Edna Adan University Hospital]] and Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somaliland, The wife of Late President Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal.
* [[Edna Adan]] – Founder and Chairman of the [[Edna Adan University Hospital]] and Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somaliland, The wife of Late President Mohamed Haji Ibrahim Egal.


==See also==
==See also==

Revision as of 22:12, 14 April 2017

Hargeisa
Hargeysa (Somali)
هرجيسا (Arabic)
Capital
Hargeisa is located in Somaliland
Hargeisa
Hargeisa
Location in Somaliland
Coordinates: 9°33′47″N 44°4′3″E / 9.56306°N 44.06750°E / 9.56306; 44.06750
Country Somaliland
Government
 • MayorAbdurrahman Mahmoud Aidiid
Area
 • Total33 km2 (13 sq mi)
Population
 (2017)[1]
 • Total1,500,000
 • Density1,600/km2 (3,000/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+3 (EAT)
Area code+2563
Websitehargeisamunicipality.com

Hargeisa ([Hargeysa] Error: {{Lang-xx}}: text has italic markup (help), Arabic: هرجيسا)[2][3] is a city situated in the Woqooyi Galbeed region of Somaliland in the Horn of Africa.[1][4] It is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Somaliland.

During the Middle Ages, Hargeisa was part of the domain of the Adal Sultanate. The city later succeeded Berbera as the capital of the British Somaliland protectorate in 1941. In 1960, the protectorate gained independence and united as scheduled days later with the Trust Territory of Somaliland (the former Italian Somaliland) to form the Somali Republic (Somalia) on July 1.[5][6]

Hargeisa is situated in a valley in the Galgodon (Ogo) highlands, and sits at an elevation of 1,334 m (4,377 ft). Home to rock art from the Neolithic period, the city is also a commercial hub for precious stone-cutting, construction, retail services and trading, among other activities.[2]

Etymology

Although little is known about the city's pre-19th century history,[7] Encyclopaedia Aethiopica suggests that the settlement may have evolved in the latter half of the 1800s as a Qadiriyya settlement established by Shaykh Maddar, near a water-stop used by nomadic stock-herders on the way to the town of Harar. It thus proposes that the name "Hargeisa" was possibly derived from the sobriquet Harar as-sagir, meaning "Harar the little"[8] or simply "little Harar'"[9]

History

Prehistory

Rock art from the Laas Geel complex on the outskirts of Hargeisa.

Numerous cave paintings from the Neolithic period are found in the Laas Geel complex, on the outskirts of Hargeisa. During November and December 2002, an archaeological survey was carried out in the area by a French team of researchers. The expedition's objective was to search for rock shelters and caves containing stratified archaeological infills capable of documenting the period when production economy appeared in this part of Somaliland (circa 5th and 2nd millennium BCE). During the course of the survey, the French archaeological team discovered the Laas Geel rock art, encompassing an area of ten rock alcoves (caves). In an excellent state of preservation, the paintings show human figures with their hands raised and facing long-horned, humpless cattle.[10]

The rock art had been known to the area's inhabitants for centuries before the French discovery. However, the existence of the site had not been broadcast to the international community. In November 2003, a mission returned to Laas Geel and a team of experts undertook a detailed study of the paintings and their prehistoric context.

Somaliland in general is home to numerous such archaeological sites, with similar rock art and/or ancient edifices found at Haylan, Qa’ableh, Qombo'ul and El Ayo. However, many of these old structures have yet to be properly explored, a process which would help shed further light on local history and facilitate their preservation for posterity.[11]

British Somaliland

Women's market in Hargeisa, British Somaliland protectorate.

In 1888, after signing successive treaties with the then ruling Somali Sultans such as Mohamoud Ali Shire of the Warsangali Sultanate, the British established a protectorate in the region referred to as British Somaliland.[12] The British garrisoned the protectorate from Aden in present-day Yemen, and administered it from their British India until 1898. British Somaliland was then administered by the Foreign Office until 1905 and afterwards by the Colonial Office.

Berbera, a major trading harbour on the Red Sea, was the protectorate's first capital due to its strategic importance. However, the capital was moved from Berbera to Hargeisa, and the city was granted capital status in 1941. During the East African Campaign, the protectorate was occupied by Italy in August 1940, but recaptured by the British in March 1941.

The protectorate gained its independence on 26 June 1960 as the State of Somaliland,[13][14] before uniting as planned days later with the Trust Territory of Somaliland (the former Italian Somaliland) to form the Somali Republic.[6]

1960–1980s

MiG monument in Hargeisa commemorating the Somaliland's breakaway from the rest of Somalia during the 1980s.[15]

In the post-independence period, Hargeisa was administered as the capital of the Woqooyi Galbeed province of Somalia. Numerous new development projects were subsequently launched in the city by the Somali government. Among these initiatives was the creation in 1977 of the Hargeisa Provincial Museum. It was the first museum to be established in Somalia since independence in 1960.[16] The Hargeisa International Airport was also renovated and modernized, with the ultimate aim of equipping the facility to accommodate larger aircraft and offer more flight destinations.[17]

Hargeisa International Airport

After fallout from the unsuccessful Ogaden campaign of the late 1970s, the ruling socialist government of the Somali Democratic Republic under Major General Mohamed Siad Barre began arresting government and military officials under suspicion of participation in an abortive 1978 coup d'état.[18][19] Most of the people who had allegedly helped plot the putsch were summarily executed.[20] However, several officials managed to escape abroad and started to form the first of various dissident groups dedicated to ousting Barre's administration by force.[21]

Among these rebel outfits was the Somali National Movement (SNM), which was supported by Ethiopia's then ruling Derg communist regime. By the late 1980s, the insurgent group had managed to capture Hargeisa, prompting air strikes by government forces. The ensuing bombing raids and crossfire claimed thousands of casualties and destroyed much of the city.[22]

Reconstruction

A residential area in Hargeisa.

After the collapse of the Somali central government and the start of the civil war in 1991, SNM secessionists in the northwestern part of the country unilaterally declared independence. A slow process of infrastructural reconstruction subsequently began in Hargeisa and other towns in the region.

Since 1991, Hargeisa has undergone a large-scale facelift. The renovations have been largely financed by local entrepreneurs, as well as Somali expatriates sending remittance funds to relatives in the region through some of the various Somali-owned money transfer operators.[23] Most of the destroyed residential and commercial buildings have since been reconstructed, with many newer structures erected. Single-story buildings downtown are also progressively giving way to multi-story high-rises.

Geography

Location and habitat

Hargeisa is located in a mountainous area, in an enclosed valley of the northwestern Galgodon (Ogo) highlands. It sits at an elevation of 1,334 meters (4,377 feet) above sea level.

Hargeisa countryside

The city used to be surrounded by forest when it was smaller in size, but the countryside around it still has small junipers. Near Hargeisa are the fertile Sheikh and Daallo mountains, which receive large amounts of rain. South of the city is the Haud savannah (Baligubadle), which attracts many different species of wildlife to graze in the area.

Hargeisa is situated near the town of Gabiley, which serves as an agricultural centre in Somaliland. That town's Allay-Baday area produces tons of tomatoes and onions each month during the rainy season. The city of Arabsiyo is also located nearby, and is noted for its lemon production.

Due to its relative fertility and greenery, wild animals come to the Hargeisa area to either breed or graze on the grassland savannah. Fauna that can be found in rural sections of the city include the kudu, wild boars, Somali wild ass, warthogs, antelopes, Somali sheep, goats, camels, and many different types of birds. There are also a number of both public and private menageries. South of Hargeisa is a grassland savannah, which attracts many types of wildlife to the area, including lions and leopards.

Climate

Hargeisa has a semi-arid climate (Köppen: BSh). The city generally features warm winters and hot summers. However, despite its location in the tropics, due to the high altitude Hargeisa seldom experiences either very hot or very cold weather. This is a trait rarely seen in regions with a semi-arid climates. The city receives the bulk of its precipitation between the months of April and September, averaging just under 400 millimetres (16 in) of rainfall annually. Average monthly temperatures in Hargeisa range from 18 °C (64 °F) in the months of December and January to 24 °C (75 °F) in the month of June.

Climate data for Hargeisa
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Record high °C (°F) 31.1
(88.0) 		31.7
(89.1) 		32.8
(91.0) 		32.8
(91.0) 		35.0
(95.0) 		33.9
(93.0) 		33.9
(93.0) 		33.3
(91.9) 		32.8
(91.0) 		31.7
(89.1) 		30.6
(87.1) 		28.9
(84.0) 		35.0
(95.0)
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 24.2
(75.6) 		26.6
(79.9) 		28.7
(83.7) 		29.2
(84.6) 		30.5
(86.9) 		31.0
(87.8) 		29.2
(84.6) 		29.2
(84.6) 		30.5
(86.9) 		28.2
(82.8) 		26.0
(78.8) 		23.7
(74.7) 		28.1
(82.6)
Daily mean °C (°F) 17.7
(63.9) 		18.7
(65.7) 		21.6
(70.9) 		23.0
(73.4) 		24.1
(75.4) 		24.3
(75.7) 		23.6
(74.5) 		23.6
(74.5) 		23.6
(74.5) 		24.1
(75.4) 		18.7
(65.7) 		18.0
(64.4) 		21.7
(71.1)
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 11.6
(52.9) 		12.6
(54.7) 		15.0
(59.0) 		16.6
(61.9) 		17.7
(63.9) 		17.7
(63.9) 		17.1
(62.8) 		17.1
(62.8) 		17.1
(62.8) 		15.0
(59.0) 		13.1
(55.6) 		12.1
(53.8) 		15.2
(59.4)
Record low °C (°F) 2.8
(37.0) 		2.8
(37.0) 		3.9
(39.0) 		9.4
(48.9) 		11.7
(53.1) 		11.7
(53.1) 		10.5
(50.9) 		11.1
(52.0) 		11.1
(52.0) 		7.2
(45.0) 		4.4
(39.9) 		4.4
(39.9) 		2.8
(37.0)
Average precipitation mm (inches) 2
(0.1) 		2
(0.1) 		36
(1.4) 		53
(2.1) 		49
(1.9) 		61
(2.4) 		38
(1.5) 		81
(3.2) 		61
(2.4) 		20
(0.8) 		8
(0.3) 		1
(0.0) 		412
(16.2)
Average precipitation days (≥ 0.1 mm) 1 1 3 6 7 9 8 10 11 4 1 0 61
Average relative humidity (%) 65 65 58 57 56 55 53 53 55 56 61 64 58
Percent possible sunshine 80 73 80 73 64 73 64 64 73 80 80 80 74
Source 1: Food and Agriculture Organization: Somalia Water and Land Management (temperatures, humidity and percent sunshine)[24][25]
Source 2: Deutscher Wetterdienst (extremes and precipitation)[26]

Administration

Meeting hall of the regional House of Representatives.

Situated in the Woqooyi Galbeed province of the Somaliland region, Hargeisa is the seat of the regional parliament, the presidential palace and government ministries.[27]

The municipal administration is currently led by Abdurrahman Mahmoud Aidiid (Soltelco). A member of the Peace, Unity, and Development Party (Kulmiye), the ruling political association in the region, he was elected Mayor on 14 April 2013 by a quorum of 24 city councilors.[28]

Demographics

In 2005 according to the UNDP the city had a population of 560,028,[29] while according to CIA factbook, Hargeisa has estimated population of around 760,000 as of 2015.[1] In It is the 700th largest city in the world by population size. The urban area occupies 75 square kilometres (29 sq mi), with a population density of 12,600 inhabitants per square kilometre (33,000/sq mi).[1] It is primarily inhabited by the Isaaq Somali clan.

Economy

Panorama of Hargeisa
Qani Abdi Alin, owner of the Dheeman clothing firm, at the launch of the Partnership Fund for local commercial ventures.

Hargeisa is the financial hub to many entrepreneurial industries ranging from gem stonecutters, to construction, food processing, retail, and import and export firms.[2]

In June 2012, the Partnership Fund for the private sector in the Somaliland region was launched at Hargeisa's Ambassador Hotel. Part of the larger Partnership for Economic Growth program, the initiative will see $900,000 USD allocated to 13 private local businesses, as well as the creation of 250 new full-time jobs, half of which are to be earmarked for youth and one third for women.

The fund is expected to improve job opportunities for 1,300 entrepreneurs through ameliorated product distribution and investment in new technologies and processing facilities. Eligibility is determined through a competitive and transparent selection process overseen by the Partnership program, the Somaliland Chamber of Commerce, and government officials.[30]

Transportation

Buses are the most commonly used form of public transportation in Hargeisa. They travel on a number of routes serving nearly all of the city's districts. Intra-city bus services are also available, which connect Hargeisa to other major northern Somali cities and towns, including Burao, Berbera and Borama.

Vehicles on a main road in suburban Hargeisa.

With the growth of urban development, several new taxi companies have sprung up in Hargeisa. They are the brainchild of local entrepreneurs and Somali expatriates who have returned to invest in their hometown. The firms provide high quality and secure taxi transportation to all parts of the city, and offer long-term employment opportunities. Raho City Taxi was the first of these new cab companies to begin operations in the region. As of 2012, it has a fleet of around 40 vehicles, which include small sedans and vans capable of accommodating up to seven passengers.[31]

Hargeisa Taxi is another of the recent taxi firms based in Hargeisa. It has a fleet of four small compact cars and seven passenger minivans, in addition to around 19 other vehicles. GPS devices installed by the Sahal Technology firm allow the cab company's dispatch office to monitor its taxis to ensure that they travel within the speed limit. The office can also disable the vehicles online in the event of theft. Other new taxi firms serving Hargeisa include Dalhis Taxi and Marodi Jeh Taxi. Fares are inexpensive, costing between 15,000 and 18,000 Somaliland shillings ($2–$3 USD) per ride,[31] with the national Somali shilling also widely accepted.[32]

Flydubai flight landing at Egal International Airport in Hargeisa

For air transportation, the city is served by the Hargeisa International Airport. The Somali-owned private carriers Daallo Airlines and Jubba Airways offer domestic flights from the facility to various other towns in Somalia, such as Mogadishu, Bosaso and Galkayo. Trips to international destinations are also available, including to Djibouti and Dubai. It has recently gained more airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines and flydubai.[33]

Education

A school roster board in Hargeisa.

Various primary schools and nurseries are dispersed throughout Hargeisa. There are also several state-run and privately owned secondary and high schools in the city. Among these are the SOS Sheikh Secondary School and Abaarso School of Science and Technology, the latter of which is the pre-eminent secondary institution in the area. Abaarso School is located about 13 km (8 mi) west of Hargeisa.

In terms of post-secondary education, the city is home to a number of colleges and universities. The main institutions of higher learning include the University of Hargeisa, Admas University College, Somaliland University of Technology, Gollis University, New Generation University, Hope University and Marodijeh International University. Additionally, the Edna Adan Maternity Hospital offers nursing programmes to students.

Communication

Hargeisa has a modern telephone system, with most urban residents enjoying mobile or landline access. As online service providers have grown, a number of internet cafés have also sprung up throughout the city.

The main telecommunication services available in Hargeisa are operated by Telesom, Somtel, Somcable and NationLink Telecom.

Notable residents

See also

Notes

  1. ^ a b c d "Somalia". The World Factbook. Langley, Virginia: Central Intelligence Agency. Retrieved 6 December 2013.
  2. ^ a b c "Hargeisa". Jubba Airways. Archived from the original on January 22, 2013. Retrieved 18 July 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  3. ^ x=1350565654&lng=fr&des=gamelan&geo=-198&srt=pnan&col=abcdefghinoq&msz=1500&men=gcis&lng=en "Somalia: largest cities and towns and statistics of their population". world-gazetteer.com. Retrieved October 19, 2012. {{cite web}}: Check |url= value (help)
  4. ^ Regions of Somalia
  5. ^ Worldstatesmen – Somalia
  6. ^ a b Encyclopædia Britannica, The New Encyclopædia Britannica, (Encyclopædia Britannica: 2002), p.835
  7. ^ Briggs, Philip (2012). Somaliland: With Addis Ababa & Eastern Ethiopia. Bradt Travel Guides. p. 10. ISBN 1841623717.
  8. ^ Ficadorey, Gianfranco (2008). "Ha". Basic Reference. 3. NY, USA: Thomson/Gale: 1032.
  9. ^ Bennett, Norman (1968). Leadership in Eastern Africa. Boston University Press. p. 70. Retrieved 14 July 2016.
  10. ^ The Journal of African Archeology Volume 1.2 (2003) Chapter 3
  11. ^ Michael Hodd, East African Handbook, (Trade & Travel Publications: 1994), p.640.
  12. ^ Hugh Chisholm (ed.), The encyclopædia britannica: a dictionary of arts, sciences, literature and general information, Volume 25, (At the University press: 1911), p.383.
  13. ^ "Somaliland Marks Independence After 73 Years of British Rule" (fee required). The New York Times. 1960-06-26. p. 6. Retrieved 2008-06-20.
  14. ^ "How Britain said farewell to its Empire". BBC News. 2010-07-23.
  15. ^ "Close Residents of Somaliland sit under a war memorial of a MiG fighter jet in the centre of town in Hargeisa". Reuters. 19 May 2013. Retrieved 11 February 2014.
  16. ^ Cobelj, Stefanja (April 24, 2009). "The Provincial Museum of Hargeisa". Museum International. doi:10.1111/j.1468-0033.1986.tb00633.x.
  17. ^ Economist Intelligence Unit (Great Britain), Country report: Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, (The Unit: 1986), p.43.
  18. ^ ARR: Arab report and record, (Economic Features, ltd.: 1978), p.602.
  19. ^ Ahmed III, Abdul. "Brothers in Arms Part I" (PDF). WardheerNews. Retrieved February 28, 2012.
  20. ^ New People Media Centre, New people, Issues 94–105, (New People Media Centre: Comboni Missionaries, 2005).
  21. ^ Nina J. Fitzgerald, Somalia: issues, history, and bibliography, (Nova Publishers: 2002), p.25.
  22. ^ Jimcaale, Cabdirahman (2002). Consolidation and decentralization of government institutions. Academy for Peace and Development. p. 19.
  23. ^ UK Somali Remittances Survey
  24. ^ "Climate of Somalia" (PDF). Food and Agriculture Organization. pp. 69–73. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 November 2016. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  25. ^ "Long term mean monthly sunshine fraction in Somalia". Food and Agriculture Organization. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  26. ^ "Klimatafel von Hargeisa / Somalia" (PDF). Baseline climate means (1961-1990) from stations all over the world (in German). Deutscher Wetterdienst. Retrieved 4 November 2016.
  27. ^ Hargeisa City Hall. Retrieved on 2012-10-17. (2000 est.)
  28. ^ Qaran News (14 April 2013). "Kulmiye's Abdirahman Soltelco New Mayor Of Hargeisa". Qaran News. Retrieved 18 July 2013.
  29. ^ https://docs.unocha.org/sites/dms/Somalia/UNDP-POP-RURAL-URBAN%202005.pdf
  30. ^ "USAID launches the first grants program for the private sector in Somaliland". USAID. Archived from the original on February 18, 2013. Retrieved 18 July 2013. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  31. ^ a b Dahir, Barkhad (20 December 2012). "Taxi companies in Hargeisa create jobs, ease travel". Sabahi. Retrieved 18 July 2013.
  32. ^ "Finance Manager – Reporting & Sub Grant Compliance, Hargeisa". Relief Web. Retrieved 19 July 2013.
  33. ^ https://www.flydubai.com/en/destinations/africa/somaliland/hargeisa

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