Somalia sends condolences to Algeria after deadly wildfires

Thursday August 27, 2026

A firefighter works to extinguish a fire in Taourirt Ighil in the mountainous Bejaia province, Algeria, August 19, 2025 [Abdelaziz Boumzar/ Reuters]

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s federal government has extended condolences to Algeria after wildfires broke out in several parts of the country, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens.

In a statement Thursday, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed sympathy to the government and people of Algeria following the fires that erupted Wednesday, particularly in the province of Béjaïa.

The ministry said Somalia stands in full solidarity with Algeria, shares the grief of bereaved families and prays for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in hospitals.

“Somalia commends the Algerian authorities and emergency services working to contain the fires and protect affected communities,” the statement said. “The Federal Republic of Somalia reaffirms its steadfast support for Algeria and its brotherly people at this difficult time.”

At least 12 people were killed and 54 others injured as wildfires swept through parts of northeastern Algeria, officials said.

Authorities evacuated dozens of families from the hardest-hit areas.

Interior Minister Said Sayoud told reporters Wednesday that the deaths occurred in the provinces of Jijel, Béjaïa and Tizi Ouzou.