MOGADISHU, Somalia— Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday attended celebrations marking the 66th anniversary of the Somali National Army.
The ceremony, held at the Defense Ministry headquarters in Mogadishu, featured a large parade of troops, armored vehicles and modern military equipment.
Fighter jets flew over the city as part of the display, highlighting Somalia’s growing military capabilities and efforts to rebuild its armed forces.
The event underscored efforts to strengthen the Somali National Army, which has made advances against al-Shabab and recaptured territory once under militant control.
Speaking at the event, Mohamud congratulated the armed forces on their anniversary and praised their role in protecting Somalia and supporting civilians.
“The heroes of the Somali National Army have saved 20 million Somalis and will have their achievements recorded in history,” the president said.
He also reiterated his government’s commitment to continuing military operations aimed at liberating areas still held by militants across the country.
Somalia’s National Army was founded on April 12, 1960, and this year’s anniversary comes as the country works to rebuild military capacity.
