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Top bands like Dayax Band and Xidigaha Geeska headline nationwide concerts as Somaliland marks 34 years since its self-declared independence from Somalia
The people of Somaliland are celebrating May 18—its Independence Day—with more excitement and energy than ever before. This year, the festivities have gone up a notch, especially with big-name music groups like Dayax Band and Xidigaha Geeska performing across the region to honor the country’s self-declared independence from Somalia.
The celebrations began in late April, with concerts taking place in major cities like Hargeisa, Burao, Berbera, Ceerigaabo, and Gabiley. These concerts have brought in huge crowds and are filled with messages of unity, pride, and patriotism.
May 18 marks the day Somaliland declared itself independent from Somalia in 1991. Although Somaliland is still not officially recognized as a separate country by the international community, it sees this day as its most important national holiday. People celebrate with parades, music, public events, and colorful decorations.
Dayax Band kicked off their tour with a concert on April 26 in downtown Hargeisa. The band is led by lyricist Daaha Gaas, and they have been performing new songs focused on Somaliland’s desire for recognition as an independent state. Their music talks about good leadership, unity, and national pride, and it has been attracting large crowds wherever they perform.
Another popular group, Xidigaha Geeska, has also been a big part of this year’s celebrations. They recently brought in younger singers, but what’s really exciting fans is the return of veteran singer Mohamed Said BK. He had been away from music for five years, so his return has created a lot of buzz. The group has already released 11 new songs and is planning a major concert at Hargeisa Stadium.
Speaking to local TV station MMTV, BK said, “This concert is about showing who we are as a people. My fellow artists and I want to give the people of Somaliland something memorable. We hope everyone comes out with their flags to join the celebration.”
The Somaliland government has been fully involved in the preparations. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Cirro hosted singers and musicians at the presidential palace to show his support. Other government leaders, like presidential chief of staff Muniir Ahmed Egal, have been spotted attending the concerts and engaging with the public.
Egal said, “All the major music groups are part of this. That includes Dayax Band, Xidigaha Geeska, our national artists, and even some performers from the diaspora. It’s not just a celebration for Somaliland—it’s for all Somalis who support our journey.”
Some of the new songs released this year have become instant hits. One of the most talked-about is by BK, who sings, “I helped the South, took the journey, and taught them how to build a foundation and act like a state.” Another patriotic song by Mustafe Dollar of Dayax Band includes the line: “You raised your nose with pride, and now you carry it,” referring to Somaliland’s resilience and pride.
The celebrations go beyond music. Schools and local community centers are also busy preparing events and performances for May 18. From student parades to cultural shows, the whole region is getting ready for what officials say is one of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in recent memory.
In short, Somaliland is marking its 34th year since its 1991 declaration of independence with passion, music, and a strong sense of national identity. Whether on stage, in schools, or in the streets, the people of Somaliland are proudly celebrating who they are.