Qandala

Qandala is an ancient Port city in the Puntland region of Somalia, 75 kilometres (47 mi) east of Bosaso City, 549 kilometres (341 mi) south of Aden, and 475 kilometres (295 mi) west of Socotra.

History

Qandala, like many other Somali ports on the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, may have 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.

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.

Economy

One of the largest products of Qandala is a traditional gum, which is exported to several countries including Yemen, Oman, Saudi Arabia, India, Spain, and Australia. 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 (Hajj).

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 of Siad Barre 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 the concentration of wealth and opportunities in the capital caused a rapid exodus.

It has an estimated population of 40,000 although estimates have ranged as high as 70,000 to 80,000.

References