His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Somaliland, Muse Bihi Abdi, today launched a large-scale money distribution program for the people who recently lost their property in the Waheen market fire, so that they can rebuild their business.
The distribution ceremony was held at the presidential palace with the President accompanied by the Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Abdirahman Abdillahi Ismail (Saylici) along with several members of the cabinet. The total amount distributed today was $ 1,872,511 to a total of 988 traders. The people who received today’s donations mostly consisted of poor traders, whose businesses are valued between $73 to $5,000.
The Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, who is also the chairperson of the Waheen Market Relief and Support Committee, spoke at the forum and highlighted the need to find a temporary market, so these traders can continue their business.
Members who spoke on behalf of the poor who received the money today praised the president and the government for the move, as they were the first recipients to receive money to rebuild their business.
President Bihi concluded the event by commending the Waheen Market Relief Committee for their commitment to the nation and called on the people of Somaliland to work with the committee in any way possible. Any donations collected should be deposited in the accounts held by the committee. The President also stated that the committee and the government have agreed that priority of the first phase of money distribution be given to the poorest traders in the Waheen market, with those whose business was valued at less than one hundred dollars given five hundred dollars.
