Wednesday July 2, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Nations Secretary-General’s
Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, and the Chairperson of the
African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, have extended their heartfelt
congratulations to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Somalia
on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
In a statement released Tuesday, the UN envoy praised
Somalia’s resilience and progress.
"Somalia has much to be rightfully proud of, including
achievements in advancing peace, prosperity, and governance despite facing
great challenges,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for
Somalia, James Swan.
“On behalf of the United Nations family in Somalia, I wish
all Somalis ‘hambalyo,’ on this significant day, and reaffirm the UN’s
commitment to supporting Somalia as it strives for even greater progress in the
years to come,” he added.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf
echoed similar sentiments, recalling the historical significance of July 1,
1960.
“This historic day stands as a proud testament to the unity,
resilience, and determination of the Somali people, who came together in
pursuit of sovereignty, dignity, and self-determination,” he stated.
“As you commemorate this important milestone, I pay tribute
to the generations of Somalis whose sacrifices made this day possible. I
reaffirm the African Union’s enduring solidarity with Somalia as you continue
to advance your national priorities.”
Somalia’s path to independence began on June 26, 1960, when
the northern region—then British Somaliland—gained independence from British
rule. Days later, on July 1, it united with the southern territory of the Trust
Territory of Somalia (formerly Italian Somaliland), forming the Somali
Republic.
The country marks its 65th Independence Anniversary with
parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and renewed calls for peace, unity, and
democratic progress.