Nairobi: Sunatimes- Somalis all over the world are expected to hold different celebrations to mark the 50th anniversary of Somalia’s independence in 1960.

July 1st is the date Somalia’s southern regions took their independence from the Italian colony and also united with the northern regions to form the Republic of Somalia.

In the capital Mogadishu, President Sheriff Sheikh Ahmed of the TFG, is expected to lead the occasion to mark the anniversary. However, the Al-shabab militia group that controls most of the Southern parts has already declared the celebrations illegal and anti-Islamic.

As usual, Somalis in the Diaspora are also expected to hold different ceremonies to mark the great national day. In Nairobi, the ambassador for Somalia is expected to lead the ceremony, which will be held at City Hall. The Somali flag will be raised and the national anthem sung at midnight (East African time).

Despite being one the countries in Africa that gained its independence from their colonialists early, civil war and unrest have qualified Somalia to top the list of the world’s failed states for the last three consecutive years.

Management of Radio Bar-kulan and its staff members wish all Somalis the best in celebrating the national day as we all progress towards achieving peace in Somalia and solidarity.

Radio Bar-kulan.