Somalia Marks 66th Anniversary of Unification with Military Parade and Call for Unity

MOGADISHU – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia has led the nation in marking the 66th anniversary of July 1, 1960, the historic day when the former Italian-administered Trust Territory of Somalia gained independence and united with the former British Somaliland Protectorate to form the Somali Republic.

The President paid tribute to Somali heroes by laying a wreath at the Daljirka Dahsoon (Unknown Soldier) Monument, honouring those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for independence, unity, and statehood. The ceremony was part of a larger event organised with high-level protocols, reflecting the significance of the date in Somalia’s national calendar.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre established a national organising committee in early June to manage preparations for the anniversary celebrations, assigning it responsibility for inter-agency coordination, budget management, and security arrangements at venues across the country.

Military Display Showcases Modernisation

The event featured a large-scale military parade, with units from the Somali National Army, police, and custodial corps demonstrating their capabilities. The display included armoured vehicles, modern military equipment, and combat aircraft, reflecting the progress the government has made in rebuilding and professionalising the national armed forces.

The military display highlighted the SNA’s significant advancements in equipment, training, and operational readiness, with specialised units showcasing advanced technology and tactical skills acquired through partnerships with international allies including Türkiye, Egypt, and Qatar.

The presence of combat aircraft in the parade underscored the growing capabilities of the Somali Air Force, which has been rebuilding its capacity through international partnerships.

President’s Call for Unity and Sovereignty

President Mohamud congratulated the Somali people on the occasion, emphasising the importance of preserving national unity, solidarity, and sovereignty. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a secure, prosperous Somalia built on self-reliance and full statehood.

The President has previously emphasised the importance of national unity and reconciliation, calling on Somalis to unite and build a prosperous nation, and warning against polarising politics amid ongoing political tensions.

President Mohamud has previously urged unity on the 66th Independence Day, describing the occasion as a time for Somalis to set aside their differences and work together to rebuild the country. “Today is a reminder that our strength lies in our unity. We must put aside our differences and work together for the future of our children and grandchildren,” he said.

A Divided Commemoration

The celebrations seek to reinforce national unity and honour the generations whose efforts helped secure Somalia’s independence and sovereignty. Yet the commemorations come at a politically sensitive time, as the country continues to grapple with deep divisions over the president’s mandate and the electoral framework.

Opposition leaders have drawn sharp battle lines against what they describe as “illegitimate term extensions” and “disputed elections”, warning the government not to push the country into another cycle of political turmoil. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s official term expired on May 15 under the 2012 Provisional Constitution, though he maintains that constitutional amendments passed in March have extended his mandate by one year.

Way Forward

The 66th Independence Day celebrations serve as both a moment of national pride and a reminder of the challenges facing the country. As Somalia continues to work towards strengthening state institutions, advancing political reforms, and improving security, the commemoration of July 1 remains a powerful symbol of the nation’s resilience and aspirations for a stable, unified future.