Somalia Marks 26 June Independence Anniversary As President Renews Call for National Unity

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has marked the 65th anniversary of the independence of the former British Somaliland with celebrations across the country, as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud renewed his government’s commitment to dialogue aimed at restoring national unity.

National celebrations were held in Mogadishu, while regional commemorations also took place in Hargeisa, Dhusamareb and Baidoa, reflecting the historical significance of 26 June 1960, when the former British protectorate gained independence from Britain.

Addressing a national ceremony in the capital, President Mohamud said his administration would continue pursuing peaceful efforts to bridge differences with the northern regions.

“We will never tire of efforts to restore Somalia’s unity,” he said, adding that the federal government remained open to dialogue and confidence-building measures that could lead to a mutually acceptable political settlement.

The anniversary commemorates a pivotal moment in Somali history. Following independence on 26 June 1960, the former British Somaliland voluntarily united with the Trust Territory of Somalia, then administered by Italy, on 1 July to establish the Somali Republic. Those two dates remain central to Somalia’s national identity and are celebrated annually as milestones in the country’s independence.

However, the anniversary continues to carry different political meanings across Somalia. While the Federal Government views 26 June as the beginning of a unified Somali state, Somaliland— which declared independence in 1991 following the collapse of Somalia’s central government—marks the date as the birth of its own statehood.

Somaliland operates with its own government, security forces and institutions, but has not received international recognition as an independent country.

The commemorations come at a time of renewed attention on Somalia’s unity, following months of diplomatic and political developments involving Somaliland that have drawn concern from Mogadishu.

The federal government has consistently maintained that Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, while reiterating that any outstanding issues should be resolved through dialogue.

For many Somalis, the anniversary is both a celebration of the sacrifices made during the struggle against colonial rule and a reminder of the challenges that remain more than six decades later.

As the country continues efforts to strengthen security, rebuild state institutions and advance political reconciliation, leaders used this year’s celebrations to call for greater unity, peace and cooperation in shaping Somalia’s future.