Introduction
Background on Somalia’s Independence Week
Somalia’s Independence Week, observed from June 26 to July 1, commemorates significant milestones in our nation’s history. On June 26, 1960, British Somaliland gained independence, followed by the unification with Italian Somaliland on July 1, 1960, forming the Republic of Somalia. This week symbolizes freedom, sovereignty, and the aspiration for peace and democratic governance, serving as a moment for reflection and cultural reconnection.
Why Ardaaga Celebrated Independence Week
At Ardaaga, we recognize the importance of Independence Week as both a commemoration and an opportunity for education and unity. Our 2024 celebration aimed to empower communities, especially youth, by fostering dialogue and reconnecting them with Somalia’s independence journey. The week provided a platform to:
- Reconnect communities with historical truths and shared values.
- Amplify youth voices in shaping the country’s democratic future.
- Showcase Somalia’s rich cultural heritage through art, music, and storytelling.
- Spark meaningful civic discourse on unity and leadership.
Goals of the 2024 Independence Week Celebration
- Educate the public, especially young people, on Somalia’s independence history.
- Celebrate cultural identity through artistic programming.
- Engage leaders, youth, and schools in discussions about the country’s past and future.
- Strengthen national pride and intergenerational understanding.
- Document and preserve narratives and expressions of national memory.
About Ardaaga
Overview of the Organization
Ardaaga is a non-profit organization based in Kismayo, Somalia, dedicated to empowering communities through civic education and cultural preservation. The name “Ardaaga” reflects a communal gathering space for knowledge sharing and collective decision-making.
Mission, Vision, and Core Activities
- Mission: To empower Somali communities through civic education and leadership development.
- Vision: A democratic, informed, and engaged Somali society rooted in unity and justice.
- Core Activities:
- Civic education campaigns
- Youth leadership programs
- Community dialogues on governance
- Cultural events celebrating Somali heritage
Why Civic Engagement Matters
Civic engagement transforms citizens into active participants in shaping their communities. Ardaaga believes that a society informed by its history can make wise decisions and that cultural pride strengthens social bonds.
Summary of the Week
Dates: June 26 – July 1, 2024
Location: Ardaaga Space, Kismayo, Somalia
Ardaaga’s 2024 Independence Week unfolded over six days of community-driven programming, honoring Somalia’s freedom while empowering future leaders. Each day included storytelling, art exhibitions, poetry recitals, and online engagement, creating a rich environment for celebration and reflection.
Highlights in Numbers
- 400+ Total participants
- 15 speakers
- 20+ Local artworks displayed
- 10,000+ Estimated online engagements
- 1 School visit with over 20 students
- 4 Cultural performances
- 8 Storytelling sessions
- 1 Live Music
Key Achievements
- Strengthened National Identity: Participants engaged in storytelling and cultural expression, reviving collective pride.
- Youth Empowerment: Young leaders took center stage, deepening their understanding of Somalia’s past.
- Cultural Revival: The week celebrated and preserved Somali heritage through various artistic mediums.
- Community Engagement: Diverse voices promoted intergenerational dialogue.
Event Day Highlights
June 26 – Independence Day
Event Title: Celebrating the 64th Anniversary of Independence
Time: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Key Speakers:
- Baraa Jamal Abdinasir – Executive Director, Ardaaga
- Mohamed Abdi – Writer and Panel Guest
- Abdimajid Aw Warfa – Panel Guest
The day featured keynote speeches that offered insights into the historical context of Somali independence, followed by youth forums, cultural performances, and online engagement.
July 1 – Republic Day
Event Title: Remembering Unity and Nationhood
Time: 8:00 PM – 12:30 AM
This evening emphasized Somalia’s unity, with elders sharing oral histories and youth performing poetry and music, showcasing the spirit of national pride.
School Visit – Mustaqbal School A group of students from Mustaqbal School visited Ardaaga for a special independence education day:
- Storytelling sessions tailored for children.
- Traditional Somali games.
- Drawing and creative projects inspired by independence themes.
- Group discussion about national identity and citizenship
During Ardaaga’s 2024 Independence Week, live music played a powerful role in uniting participants through the emotional language of sound. Traditional Somali songs, patriotic anthems, and newly composed pieces were performed throughout the week, highlighting the country’s cultural richness and national pride.
Reflections and Impact
Ardaaga’s 2024 celebration transformed commemoration into civic action, encouraging participants to connect with their heritage and participate in shaping Somalia’s democratic future.
Some of our speakers say:
Bashir recalled witnessing Somalis of all ages and backgrounds young and old, men and women, from both north and south coming together in unity to celebrate freedom from June 26th to July 1st. He described the joy, traditional dances, and community spirit that once filled those days, emphasizing how independence was a shared pride across the nation. He expressed happiness in seeing that same spirit being revived through today’s celebrations and thanked Ardaaga.
Abdishakuur thanked Ardaaga for organizing the Independence Week program and praised their effort in preserving the memory of Somalia’s freedom. As a young person, he reflected on the importance of marking the 64th anniversary of independence, remembering the sacrifices, struggle, and dedication of those who fought for it. He emphasized that this legacy places a responsibility on today’s generation to honor that freedom by continuing the work and advancing the nation forward.
Mohamed began by thanking God and appreciating the Ardaaga team for their continued efforts in uplifting the Somali community through meaningful initiatives like the Independence Week celebration. He congratulated all Somalis on this important national occasion and reflected on the sacrifices made by previous generations to free the nation from colonial rule. He emphasized the duty to protect and preserve that hard-earned freedom. To honor the celebration, Mohamed also shared a patriotic poem encouraging unity, remembrance, and pride in Somalia’s independence and national identity.
Future Plans
Ardaaga is committed to institutionalizing Independence Week as an annual event, expanding its reach and impact through partnerships with schools, mobile exhibitions, and community engagement initiatives.
Acknowledgements
We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to this celebration — our speakers, community partners, volunteers, and the youth of Kismayo. Your passion and commitment made this week memorable.
For more information about Ardaaga and our initiatives, stay tuned on our website or follow us on social media. Thank you for celebrating with us!