Bakaara Market facts for kids
The Bakaaraha Market (which means Bakaara Market in Somali) is a very big outdoor market in Mogadishu, Somalia. It's the largest market in the whole country! The name Bakaaraha comes from a Somali word for a place where grain is stored, like a silo.
This market started in late 1972. People there sell everyday items like corn, beans, peanuts, rice, and even fuel and medicine.
It's also known for some unofficial activities, like making fake passports or other documents. This part of the market is sometimes called Cabdalle Shideeye.
Contents
History of Bakaara Market
Famous Events at the Market
In October 1993, a famous event called the Battle of Mogadishu happened near the market. During this time, two U.S. Army helicopters were shot down. This led to a long and intense fight that lasted all night.
Challenges and Changes at the Market
Over the years, the Bakaara Market has faced many challenges.
Fires and Money Problems
In 1997, a disagreement over collecting taxes led to a rocket being fired into a fuel tank. This caused injuries to several people.
In March 1999, many people left the market because of fighting. This fighting continued for some time.
On January 5, 2001, a fire broke out in the market. It destroyed the vegetable section and part of the milk section.
In February 2001, a lot of fake money appeared. This caused the market to close for a while. Traders only accepted U.S. dollars because the local money, the Somali shilling, lost its value. This made food and other important items much more expensive.
On April 10, 2004, another serious fire happened at the market. At least eight people died, and more than 30 were hurt. People who were stealing also shot into the crowd.
On October 2, 2007, another fire started and spread quickly. It was believed to have been caused by a shell fired during a brief fight nearby.
On October 15, 2009, a group called Al-Shabaab attacked the market with mortars. This killed 20 people and injured 58.
On May 1, 2010, two bombs exploded near the market. They killed 39 people and injured 70.
On May 12, 2011, the African Union Mission to Somalia and the Transitional Federal Government started an effort to clear out Al-Shabaab from the market area.
On May 14, 2011, heavy shelling hit the market. This resulted in at least 14 people being hurt or killed. Most of those killed were women who were shopping, and one child also died.
In November 2012, Ahmed Nure Awdiini, a leader in the market's business community, was shot and killed outside his office.
Market Security Checkpoints
For a long time, the security checkpoints for the market were controlled by Mohamed Qanyare Afrah. He was a local leader who later became the Minister of National Security. These checkpoints were removed in June 2005. This was part of a special effort to reduce small weapons in the area.
See also
In Spanish: Mercado de Bakaara para niños
