MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud joined a national ceremony in Mogadishu on Friday to commemorate the 66th anniversary of the independence of Somalia’s northern regions, marking the historic June 26, 1960 milestone.
The event honored the country’s independence struggle and the sacrifices made by Somali nationalists, whose efforts paved the way for independence and the subsequent unification of the Somali Republic.
Addressing the gathering, Hassan Sheikh said Somalia’s freedom was achieved through the courage, sacrifice and unity of its independence heroes, urging citizens to preserve that legacy for future generations.
The president acknowledged that Somalia continues to face challenges affecting national unity, peace and state-building, but said the country also has significant opportunities that require collective efforts by both the public and national leadership to advance reconstruction and development.
Concluding his remarks, Hassan Sheikh congratulated all Somalis on the June 26 anniversary and called for greater unity, peace and renewed commitment to building a stable, united and prosperous Somalia.
