Zurich, Switzerland – 2025
A grand and well-organized ceremony commemorating Somali Independence Week, marking 26 June and 1 July 2025, was held in Zurich, Switzerland. The national and unifying event was officially organized by the Somali Community of the Canton of Zurich (Jaaliyadda Soomaaliyeed Ee Gobolka Zürich – SVKZH), which extended formal invitations to Somali communities across Europe, with special focus on Somalis residing in Switzerland.
The event reflected a strong sense of patriotism, unity, and collective memory, celebrating the historic milestones of Somalia’s independence while strengthening ties between the Somali diaspora and national institutions.
The ceremony was honored by the presence of a high-level delegation from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in Switzerland, traveling officially from Geneva. The delegation was led by H.E. Ambassador Khadra Ahmed Duale, the Ambassador of Somalia to Switzerland and Austria, and the Permanent Representative of Somalia to the United Nations Office at Geneva. Her presence underscored the importance of the role played by diaspora communities in preserving national identity and supporting Somalia’s development.
Also in attendance was Mr. Ahmed Jamac, a Somali-Swiss politician and member of the Municipal Council of the City of Geneva, who currently serves as the President of the Geneva City Parliament (Vorsitzender des Stadtrats). His participation marked a historic milestone, as he is recognized as the first Black African Somali to hold such a senior elected position within a municipal parliament in Switzerland.
The ceremony was further attended by representatives from the Canton of Zurich, including senior officials representing Swiss federal and cantonal institutions, as well as government-affiliated bodies. Their participation highlighted the strong relationship between the Somali community and Swiss authorities. In addition, Ms. Qadra Shire Mohamed, Chairperson of the Somali Community in the Principality of Liechtenstein, was present, representing Somali communities beyond Switzerland and reinforcing regional cooperation among Somali diaspora organizations.
Beyond official guests, the event drew wide participation from diverse segments of the Somali community living in Switzerland and across Europe. These included cultural artists, poets, intellectuals, civil society organizations, business leaders, professionals, religious scholars, youth groups, and women’s associations, all of whom play vital roles in sustaining Somali culture and identity abroad.
Throughout the program, Somali independence days were commemorated with deep emotion and national pride. Speeches, cultural performances, and reflections emphasized unity, patriotism, and the importance of strengthening cooperation between the Somali diaspora and the institutions of the Somali state. The role of Jaaliyadda Soomaaliyeed Ee Gobolka Zürich (SVKZH) was widely praised for its leadership in bringing the community together and promoting Somali heritage within the European context.
The event was described by many attendees as the largest and most significant Somali national celebration ever held in Switzerland, setting a new benchmark for community organization, inclusivity, and national representation.
The celebration concluded in an atmosphere of hope, pride, and renewed commitment to unity, leaving participants inspired and confident about the future role of the Somali diaspora in contributing to national cohesion and international engagement.
