Chapter 126

Chapter 126: Las Campoli Trading Market

Hans Barker and his patrol team parted ways with Ekaramu and his Arab caravan, allowing them to continue their journey eastward to the Las Campoli trading market. This market, established by the East African colonial government, served as a vital hub for trade in the region.

As Ekaramu and his group approached Las Campoli, they noticed that several other Arab businessmen had already set up shop in the bustling market. These individuals had been persuaded to come here by the Hexingen faction, just as Ekaramu had been.

The market was under the management of the Hexingen faction, and it was closely guarded by armed personnel, similar to Hans Barker's patrol team. The colonial government had prepared a variety of goods for trade, including ivory, cloves, sisal weaving, food, and European industrial products.

Ekaramu was particularly interested in the quality of the sisal cloth, a material that could be used to create various daily utensils, such as carpets and household items. The cloth was not only durable but also reasonably priced, making it a desirable commodity for the local residents of Somalia.

The Las Campoli market primarily focused on selling raw materials, such as unprocessed ivory, animal skins, hemp rope, linen, logs, and grain. These goods were in high demand among the indigenous populations of Somalia and North Africa. While there was a limited presence of Arab merchants in the market, many of the goods for trade could not find buyers due to the relatively small number of traders.

Salt, for example, was a necessity for many indigenous people, but the limited Arab merchants couldn't provide sufficient quantities to meet the demand. The East African colonies had developed salt farms along the coast and also imported high-quality salt from Germany to address this need. However, the quality of East African table salt was generally good.

Despite some challenges, the Arab businessmen who had come to Las Campoli recognized the market's potential. It provided a direct channel for South Somalia, reducing the need for transshipment from North Africa (Egypt). Many goods that were once sourced from Egypt could now be obtained in Las Campoli at more affordable prices, enabling Arab merchants to profit from the price difference.

Ekaramu, satisfied with his purchase of linen, prepared to return to his trade routes, taking advantage of the emerging trade opportunities presented by the Las Campoli trading market. The market had the potential to significantly impact the region's economy and trade dynamics, further establishing the presence of the East African colonies in the area.