MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – Somalia is today commemorating the 66th anniversary of its Independence Day, marking one of the most significant milestones in the country’s history—the liberation of the southern regions from Italian colonial rule and the unification of northern and southern Somalia on July 1, 1960, which gave birth to the Somali Republic.
Celebrations are taking place across the country, with the main national events being held in Mogadishu, where the Federal Government has organized official ceremonies attended by senior government officials, diplomats, military leaders, veterans of the independence struggle, and members of the public. Streets across the capital have been decorated with the blue Somali flag, while security has been tightened to ensure the celebrations proceed peacefully.
The centerpiece of the commemorations is being held at Daljirka Dahsoon Square, where hundreds of civilians and members of the Somali National Armed Forces are expected to gather for military parades, ceremonial drills, and cultural performances honoring the country’s struggle for freedom and statehood. The celebrations also pay tribute to the Somali nationalists and freedom fighters whose sacrifices paved the way for independence.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to deliver a national address during the ceremony, focusing on the country’s political, security, and economic priorities. He is also expected to reaffirm the importance of preserving Somalia’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while urging citizens to work together toward lasting peace and national development.
July 1 is regarded as one of Somalia’s most important national holidays because it marks the day when the former Trust Territory of Somaliland, administered by Italy, gained independence and voluntarily united with the former British Somaliland Protectorate, which had attained independence five days earlier on June 26, 1960. The union established the Somali Republic and fulfilled the aspirations of Somali nationalists who had long campaigned for a unified Somali state.
This year’s celebrations come amid renewed political focus on Somalia’s territorial integrity. In 2025, Israel announced its recognition of Somalia’s northwestern regions, a move that was strongly rejected by the Federal Government of Somalia and criticized by several international partners, who reiterated their support for Somalia’s sovereignty and internationally recognized borders.
Throughout this year’s Independence Week, government institutions, schools, civil society organizations, and community groups have organized events emphasizing patriotism, national reconciliation, and the preservation of Somalia’s unity.
Officials have repeatedly described the anniversary as a reminder of the country’s shared history and the importance of safeguarding the ideals of independence, unity, and self-determination for future generations.