Somaliland celebrates 31st independence anniversary with pomp and pageantry

Today 18th may marks the 31st independence anniversary of Somaliland. Country leaders, statesmen, international partners and multitude of citizens gathered at the presidential road to celebrate with an array of magnificent parade displays from armed forces, various groups and individuals.

The stately ceremonial splendor kick started with a set of bands accompanied by the country’s designated songs while matching groups queued in line for the display.
Somaliland president, his cabinet, international partners such as Taiwan representative, Emirati envoy, Ethiopia representative etcetera and multitude of spectators converged to witness the progression of the highly respected event.

On each side of the major roads leading to Pespsi-Jigjihyar axis were jubilant spectators who waved the Somaliland flags.
The display of military might was not out of play as the humming sound of their stamping feet quivered the ground.

The 18th May which represents the fruits of the sacrifice of many years of struggle and warfare, is set aside to commemorate its secession from the unsatisfied unity with Somalia. Becoming independent in 1960, British Somaliland joined the former Italian Somalia to form modern Somalia. But when an independence movement developed in former British Somaliland, it led to the Somalia Civil War between 1988 and 1991.
When war ceased, Somaliland officially declared its independence on the 18th of May 1991 which is celebrated every year.