SomaliThinker

My beloved people of Somalia, Today marks a special moment in our nation's journey and in my own life of public service. As we celebrate four years since the formation of the DanQaran Government, I am deeply humbled by the trust that the Somali people have placed in us and by the opportunity to serve our beloved nation. This day, 15 June 2026, also carries a historic significance. By completing four full years in office since my appointment, I have become the longest-serving Prime Minister in the history of the Federal Republic of Somalia. I receive this milestone not as a personal achievement, but as a testament to the growing maturity, stability, and resilience of our democratic institutions. The true achievement is not the length of service, but what that service has delivered for the people of Somalia. Four years ago, when President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud entrusted me with the responsibility of leading the government, we committed ourselves to a simple but profound mission: to serve the Somali people and advance the national interest. Together, we set out to strengthen our institutions, improve security, expand public services, create opportunities for our youth, empower women, rebuild infrastructure, and restore Somalia's place in the region and the world. Today, we can proudly say that Somalia has made meaningful progress. We witnessed historic debt relief that unlocked new opportunities for economic growth. We secured the lifting of the decades-long arms embargo. Somalia joined the East African Community and took its seat on the United Nations Security Council. We expanded education, recruited thousands of teachers, strengthened healthcare services, modernised government systems, advanced digital identification, improved infrastructure, and expanded support for vulnerable communities. These accomplishments belong to every Somali citizen. They belong to the soldier defending our nation. They belong to the teacher shaping our future. They belong to the farmer, the fisherman, the entrepreneur, the civil servant, the mother raising her family, and the young person striving to build a better tomorrow. As we approach the 66th anniversary of our independence, we are reminded that nation-building is not measured in years alone. It is measured in the lives we improve, the opportunities we create, and the hope we inspire. Our work is not finished. There are still challenges before us. There are still dreams waiting to be fulfilled. There are still communities that need greater opportunity and development. But I remain confident because I have seen the strength of the Somali people. I have seen a nation that refuses to give up. I have seen citizens who continue to believe in a better future. I have seen a Somalia that is rising. I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to H.E President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for his leadership and partnership, to the Council of Ministers, members of Parliament, regional leaders, civil servants, security forces, development partners, and most importantly, the people of Somalia. Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your support. Thank you for allowing me the honour of serving our nation during this historic chapter. The road ahead remains long, but our destination is clear: a peaceful, prosperous, democratic, and united Somalia. Together, we have made history. May Allah bless the Federal Republic of Somalia and its people. Thank you.

I am deeply disappointed by the news that Omar Artan, Africa’s finest referee and one of the best in the world, may be unable to officiate at the FIFA World Cup due to visa-related circumstances. Omar has earned his place through talent, hard work, professionalism, and integrity. Having officiated at the highest levels of African and international football, his credentials speak for themselves. He represents not only Somalia, but also the aspirations of millions of young Africans who believe excellence should be recognized on the world stage. I remain hopeful that a solution can be found. Football is at its best when it brings people together and celebrates merit, inclusion, and opportunity. Omar, Africa and the world stand with you.