Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud commended the stability and progress achieved in the self-proclaimed Somaliland republic. However, he emphasized that there is still much more to be gained through unity and effective governance in Somalia.
Speaking at the celebration ceremony of Somalia’s 63rd anniversary of independence in Mogadishu on Sunday night, President Mohamud expressed his determination to address the concerns of the northern region towards the Somali government.
He emphasized that the challenges faced by the Somali people and the wounds that have hindered unity cannot be denied. However, he highlighted that the present and future generations are working towards realizing the dream of a stable and harmonious Somalia. “This requires compromise and unity,” he added.
“Somali people should envision what kind of Somalia we will celebrate one hundred years after independence. We aim for a beautiful and stable Somalia that future generations can appreciate. Our goal is a united nation that stands together,” President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stated.
Prime Minister Barre, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, Speakers of both chambers of the Federal Parliament Sheikh Adan Mohamed Noor and Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, Governor of Banadir Region Yusuf Hussein Jimale, as well as Somali scholars and intellectuals, attended the event.
Somalia’s southern provinces won independence from Italy in 1960 after years of struggle. The northern regions, now Somaliland, gained independence from Britain on June 26, 1960, and four days later united with the South, becoming the Republic of Somalia.
June 26 is the real Independence Day of Somalia; July 1 is the Unity Day”, he said, adding that the country is on its way to achieving self-sufficiency and development.
This year’s Independence Day celebrations coincided with Somalia’s worst drought in 40 years. The President acknowledged the challenging situation caused by the drought and urged the Somali people to support the government’s efforts in assisting those affected.
