Qandala
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Qandala City is an ancient harbour, and like many other Somali ports on the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, may had been frequented by Phoenicians, Egyptians, Persians, Yemenis, Greeks and Roman sailors. A diary dated to 50 CE contains a map of all the ports and their importance. It indicates that Qandala was a trade centre for cinnamon and spices. The city's name previous to Persian rule was Treanout.
This trade seems to be evidence that the people were seafarers who travelled to the Far East, as far as present-day India and China. It is not known why the first inhabitants settled at Qandala's shores but the likely explanation is trade. Apart from gums, ivory, animal skins and incense, the rise of the coastal trading post was due to the commercial opportunities the port generated.
Ancient migration routes joined Gulf countries to Qandala. Archaeological evidence suggests that Qandala may have been an important trading centre in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, participating in East Africa's trade with the Middle East and Asia.
Qandala City's early name was "Gacanka Hodonka", which means Gulf Of Prosperity referring to the Qandala community and to the successful traders of East Africa. Qandala is only 100 kilometres (60 mi) east of Bosasaso City, 80 kilometres (50 mi) south of Aden, and 40 kilometres (25 mi) west of Socctara island.
One of the largest products of Qandala is a traditional gum, which is exported to several countries including Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia, India, Spain, andAustralia. One kilogram of gum sells for about $5, providing a significant income for the Qandala community.
Oral traditions mention that Qandala was the departure port of hundreds of pilgrims for Mecca to perform their Islamic duties and worship.
Residents grew gum trees and raised camels, cattle, goats, and sheep. Livestock, hides and skin, aromatic woods and raisins were exported, while rice, other foodstuff and clothes were imported. Luxury goods consisted predominantly of textiles, precious metals and pearls.
Since the fall of the Somali government in 1991, the town has lost its historical role, and has begun a gradual decline. The Italians and the Somali governments marginalized the town after independence and forgot its ancient history. Caught in a declining and sinking town, the people were forced to emigrate to Bossaso and Mogadishu in search of livelihoods. The centralised administration and concentration of wealth and opportunities in the capital city caused a rapid exodus. Its major inhabitants are Ali Saleban as well as other clans such as Osman Mohamud, Tabale, Wabeeneya and Janbeel.
It has an estimated population of between 19,000 to 35,000.
