Friday December 13, 2024
Syrian refugees in Hargeisa celebrate the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, waving flags and chanting slogans of freedom. The community gathered in the city center to mark the historic moment, reflecting their hopes for a peaceful future. (BBC/Saleebaan Saxansaxo)
Mogadishu (HOL) — Ibrahim Ali, a Syrian refugee, has transformed his life in Hargeisa, Somaliland. A year ago, he arrived in the self-declared republic, fleeing war and uncertainty. Today, he owns and operates Ibnu Sham, a bustling restaurant known for its flavorful chicken and kebabs.
“Even if my country becomes peaceful, I won’t return,” Ibrahim told the BBC, reflecting on reports that Bashar al-Assad had fled to Russia after a surprise rebel offensive toppled his regime.
For Ibrahim, this is the third attempt at rebuilding his life since Syria’s civil war erupted in 2011. After a brief stint in Sudan, violence forced him to flee again. “I chose Somaliland because it was easy to get a visa. It’s safe here, and I’ve found a welcoming environment for business,” he explained.
Despite his growing success, Ibrahim’s ties to Syria are now limited to family visits. “If my business thrives, I see no reason to return permanently,” he said.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 following the collapse of Mohamed Siad Barre’s regime. Though unrecognized internationally, it has emerged as a relative oasis of stability in a volatile region.
Its stability has drawn refugees like Mohamed Haytham Abdu-salaam, another Syrian who has lived in Hargeisa for nine years. Mohamed, 29, married a Somali woman and is raising two children.
“At first, integrating was difficult. Learning Somali was a challenge, but the community embraced me,” Mohamed said. He remains optimistic about someday visiting Syria, though he has no immediate plans to leave Hargeisa.
Official statistics on Syrians in the region are scarce, but Somaliland’s Department of Refugees and Displacement reports that 1,700 Syrians have been registered since 2015. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) supports them with financial aid ranging from $74 to $140 per person monthly, depending on family size.
The owner of Ibnu Sham restaurant in Hargeisa stands proudly alongside his staff, showcasing the dishes that have become a favorite among locals. The restaurant, run by Syrian refugee Ibrahim Ali, symbolizes resilience and success in Somaliland. (BBC/Saleebaan Saxansaxo)
The recent fall of Assad’s regime sparked celebrations among Hargeisa’s Syrian community. Hundreds gathered in the city center, waving flags and chanting, “God is great; Syria is free.” The armed group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) announced Assad’s flight after a surprise attack on his stronghold, backed by allied rebel factions.
While the celebrations were joyful, many refugees acknowledged the monumental task of rebuilding Syria. “We dream of going back, but it will take time to heal the wounds of war,” one participant said.
In Mogadishu, Dr. Hassan Abu-Ryad, a Syrian dentist, recounted his journey to Somalia. “When I arrived, many countries had closed their borders to Syrian refugees. Somalia was the only country that welcomed me without conditions,” he said.
Dr. Hassan has since established a successful dental practice. “Somalia offered me safety and a chance to rebuild. Now, I’m earning a stable income and supporting my family,” he added.
He added that while many viewed Somalia as an unlikely destination, he saw it as a place to establish himself professionally and support his family.