By Zakaria Hassan - Reporter
Ethiopia, January 23, 2026 The Somali Regional State of Ethiopia celebrated the 33rd anniversary of the establishment of its regional administration, flag, and constitutional recognition, officials said Friday.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Jijiga Presidential Palace, President Mustafa Mohammed Omar highlighted the administration’s focus on fostering regional unity since assuming office following Ethiopia’s 2018 political reforms.
“Since the reforms, we have prioritized the unity of our people, acknowledging the region’s history, its progress, and the symbols cherished by our citizens,” Omar told attendees and international guests.
The event, held under the theme “The Struggle of Our Forefathers is the Fruit of Today’s Unity”, commemorated January 23, 1993, the day the Somali Region formally established its administration and regional parliament within Ethiopia’s federal system.
Regional leaders noted that at the time, the Somali community lacked formal political representation and constitutionally recognized rights.
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Among the guests was Governor of Kenya’s Garissa County, Nadif Jama Aden, who praised the regional administration’s efforts to honour the political heritage of its people.
“It is truly commendable and worthy of pride that you celebrate the day of regional unity today,” Aden said in his address.
The ceremony was also attended by House of Representatives Speaker Ayaan Abdi and leaders from various political parties.
President Omar emphasized that the administration intends to continue holding annual celebrations to ensure that future generations remember the challenges the region overcame on its path to self-governance.
