Mogadishu– Somalia Federal Government President President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has today laid a wreath at the SYL Monument in Mogadishu to commemorate the historic role of the Somali Youth League (SYL) in the country’s struggle for independence.

The ceremony, held in honor of the founding members of SYL, marks the national celebration of May 15 – a day that symbolizes the courage, vision, and sacrifice of the 13 young men who laid the foundation for Somalia’s independence movement.

The President paid tribute to their legacy with a moment of silence, prayers, and flowers in recognition of their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s destiny.

IN PICTURES: #Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has today laid a wreath at the SYL Monument in the capital Mogadishu, honoring the legacy of the Somali Youth League who fought for independence and national identity.

He praised Somali youth for their role in nation-building… pic.twitter.com/Tp2bMKYaSZ

— Frontier Online (@FrontierOnlineK) May 15, 2025

In his address, President Mohamud congratulated Somali youth across the country and the diaspora on this important day.

He praised their growing role in national development and their continued efforts in the fight against extremist groups that threaten Somalia’s peace and future.

“The youth were at the heart of our independence struggle, and today, they are once again at the forefront of rebuilding our country,” the President said. “We must honor the values of unity, patriotism, and progress that SYL stood for, and pass them on to future generations.”

He called on all Somali citizens to protect and preserve the pillars of national unity, solidarity, and statehood — principles that were central to the vision and mission of the SYL.

The May 15 celebration serves as a powerful reminder of Somalia’s historic journey toward sovereignty and the enduring impact of its young leaders.