BELEDWEYNE, (HAN) — The city of Beledweyne came alive on Sunday with colorful displays of unity, patriotism, and pride as thousands of residents flooded the streets to celebrate what organizers called the most significant ceremony ever held in honor of Hiiraan State. The event drew people from across the region, including community elders, youth groups, religious leaders, and government officials.
The celebration — marked by traditional dances, patriotic songs, and flag-raising ceremonies — symbolized the people’s growing sense of ownership and self-determination. Residents carried banners reading “Hiiraan for Unity and Progress” while others waved the blue-and-white flags of the state, reflecting deep enthusiasm for the region’s political and cultural identity.
“This day is not just a celebration; it is a reminder of our resilience and unity,” said Abdullahi Osman, one of the local organizers. “Hiiraan State was born from the people’s demand for fair governance, equality, and peace.”
Security was visibly tight but coordinated, as forces from Hiiraan State worked hand in hand with units of the Somali National Army (SNA) to maintain order throughout the festivities. Analysts described this joint security operation as an encouraging sign that collaboration between local administrations and the federal government remains possible — even in regions where official recognition is still pending.
Several federal officials and regional representatives attended the event, a move that political observers said underscores the growing legitimacy of Hiiraan State. Their presence was interpreted as a subtle yet powerful acknowledgment of the region’s rising influence and stability.
“The attendance of federal officials sends a strong political signal,” said a political analyst based in Beledweyne. “It suggests that Mogadishu understands the importance of engaging with local administrations that have strong community backing.”
In his speech, veteran politician Isse Mohamed delivered an impassioned address about Hiiraan’s historical legacy, tracing its administrative roots nearly a century back.
“In 1931, there was Banaadir State and Hiiraan State,” he declared. “That means Hiiraan State is 95 years old — everyone should know this. Our history didn’t begin yesterday.”
His remarks drew loud applause from the crowd, which chanted slogans celebrating Hiiraan’s past and future role in Somalia’s political transformation.
The ceremony also included performances by local artists, poetry recitations celebrating unity and peace, and speeches from youth and women leaders emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and development.
Community leaders used the occasion to call for greater investment in education, infrastructure, and public services across Hiiraan, saying that stability in the region should pave the way for social and economic growth.
The festive mood continued well into the evening, with fireworks lighting up the sky over Beledweyne. For many, the day represented not only a political milestone but also a profound emotional moment — a declaration that the people of Hiiraan are determined to chart their own destiny within a united Somalia.
As one elderly attendee put it, “We built this administration ourselves, with hope and faith. Today, we celebrate not politics, but our unity as one people.”
