MOGADISHU (GG) — The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, participated in the national flag-raising ceremony at midnight to mark the 66th anniversary of the independence of the southern regions and the historic unification of the country.
The official state event, held in the capital city of Mogadishu, commemorates July 1, 1960, when the southern territory achieved liberation from Italian colonial rule and immediately merged with the northern territory, which had gained independence from Britain days earlier.
Addressing the nation during the ceremony, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended his congratulations to the Somali public both within the country and across the diaspora. He emphasized that the anniversary represents the long, historical struggle endured by Somali nationalists and heroes who fought to establish a sovereign, free, and unified state.
Units of the Somali National Army conducted their formal duties during the event, hoisting the national flag precisely at 12:00 midnight to mirror the historic moment the blue flag was first raised in Mogadishu 66 years ago.
In his address, the President stressed the vital importance of preserving national unity, solidarity, and ongoing state-building initiatives. He noted that contemporary generations bear the critical responsibility of advancing the vision and protecting the legacy left behind by the founding figures of the Somali nation.
The midnight ceremony forms part of a broader week of national celebrations, which commenced with events honoring the liberation of the northern regions on June 26. Despite recent political debates regarding constitutional frameworks, the anniversary events drew thousands of citizens across Mogadishu to celebrate national sovereignty.
