MOGADISHU, May 15, 2026 — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Friday attended ceremonies marking the 83rd anniversary of the founding of the Somali Youth League (SYL), the nationalist movement credited with spearheading Somalia’s struggle for independence.
The commemorations, held in Mogadishu on Somalia’s Youth Day, included a wreath-laying ceremony at the SYL monument to honor the role played by young Somali nationalists in the fight for independence and the establishment of the Somali state.
Speaking at the event, Hassan Sheikh described the founders of SYL as national heroes who united Somalis around a shared vision and helped spark the political awakening that paved the way for independence and statehood.
The president also called on Somali youth to play a leading role in defending the country, rebuilding national institutions, safeguarding unity and advancing Somalia’s state-building efforts.
He said the current generation must revive the patriotism, unity and ambitions embodied by the founders of SYL in order to achieve a peaceful, developed and united Somalia.
