'I Thank Our African Brothers for Supporting Us, and I Hope That Somalia Will Soon Be Playing Its Full Role in the Continent'

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia attended the African Union Day celebrations in Mogadishu. The ceremony was attended by diplomats, commanders of the Somali National Army and the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) and other dignitaries.

The President addressed several issues regarding the role of the African Union (AU) in Somalia and other efforts the AU was actively involved in across the continent. "I draw attention to and congratulate all African countries on this occasion. Somalia will not forget the support of African countries. Today, with the help of our African brothers and sisters, the international community and the United Nations (UN), Somalia knows where it came from and where it is heading to. I am sure without that support we would not have made it this far. AU's support will be part of Somalia's history forever," the President said.

The President also talked about the African vision of 2063, in which all African countries are required to promote and empower the full inclusion and participation of women in all walks of life. He said that the Federal Government was actively empowering women, including the appointment of women to high positions within the Council of Ministers. He added that efforts are underway to enhance women's participation in politics, the economy, security and all other national activities.

The President also reiterated the commitment of his government to ensure the political transformation of Somalia through Vision 2016, so that all Somalis will have a peaceful and unified country to call home. (Source: allafrica.com, 25/05/15)