The Isaaq Genocide, orchestrated by the Somalia National Army under Siad Barre’s dictatorship, caused widespread devastation and total destruction. This period affected the Isaaq tribe profoundly, leading to the devastation of their cities and displacement of their population. Major cities like Hargeisa, Burao, and Berbera, which were predominantly inhabited by the Isaaq tribe, were heavily impacted.
Hargeisa, the largest city and capital, suffered extensive damage, with much of its infrastructure reduced to rubble and a significant majority of its population killed or displaced. Burao, another major city, also faced heavy bombardment and atrocities, resulting in a large exodus of its residents.
Small towns and rural areas were not spared, as they were often entirely destroyed or burned to the ground, exacerbating the devastation and displacement of the civilian population. The scale of the destruction and loss of life during this period has had a lasting impact on the demographics and landscape of Somaliland.
