Somalia marked 53 years of Independence today (July 1st) in a colorful ceremony held at the recently returfed Konis Stadium in Mogadishu.

Various representatives from the country's security forces, cultural groups and government arms gathered at the stadium to mark the significant milestone with marches, entertaining performances and speeches.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended the event with a retinue of government officials. "I'd like to congratulate all Somali people, everywhere, on the 53rd anniversary of our independence and unity. It's the day when the flag of Somalia was established in the world," he said.

Somalia has much to celebrate this year, as the it's security forces, assisted by the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) are in now in control of all but a few parts of the country.

"We're celebrating the 53rd Anniversary of our Independence. July 1st is a very happy day and it's a day that all Somalis hold very dear," said Ismail Macalin Abdulle, the Director-General for the Ministry of Education.

Many of those who gathered at the stadium to celebrate said it was a clear sign that Somalia was on the path to recover.

"This is a very big day for all Somalis, both here and abroad. It's a happy day because it's July 1 and we thank Allah that we are able to stand here after 21 years, today and last night as well, in order to celebrate. I congratulate all the Somalis wherever they are," added Dahab Siiso Mahamud, who leads a women's group.

The government and it's partners are now focused on stabilising the country and rebuilding its infrastructure, social, political and economic systems following decades of internal conflicts.

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