Thursday May 15, 2025
Members of Dayax Band perform during a concert in Gabiley on April 6, 2025, as part of early celebrations leading up to Somaliland’s May 18 independence anniversary. The event drew large crowds and was one of several patriotic performances staged across the region.
Hargeisa (HOL) — Celebrations ahead of Somaliland’s May 18 Independence Day have reached new heights this year, with top musical groups staging high-profile concerts across the region to mark the anniversary of its self-declared independence from Somalia.
Dayax Band and Xidigaha Geeska, two of Somaliland’s most influential music groups, are leading the festivities, performing in cities including Hargeisa, Burao, Berbera, Ceerigaabo, and Gabiley. The concerts began in late April and have drawn thousands and spotlighted themes of national pride and unity.
The May 18 holiday commemorates Somaliland’s 1991 declaration of independence from the rest of Somalia, ending a union that began in 1960. Though not internationally recognized, Somaliland considers the day its most significant national event, celebrated with parades, music, and public gatherings.
Dayax Band launched its tour with a concert in downtown Hargeisa on April 26. Led by lyricist Daaha Gaas, the group has performed new songs emphasizing Somaliland’s quest for statehood and governance. Their performances have consistently drawn large crowds.
Xidigaha Geeska, which recently added new young talent, has made headlines with the return of Mohamed Said BK, a veteran artist who had been away from the stage for five years. The group released 11 new tracks in the lead-up to a major concert at Hargeisa Stadium on Thursday evening.
“The evening’s concert is about celebrating our national identity,” BK told MMTV. “My friends and I want to give the public something special. We hope everyone brings their flags and joins in.”
The Somaliland government is actively supporting the arts during the national celebration. President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Cirro recently hosted musicians and performers at the presidential palace, signalling official backing for the cultural programming. Senior officials, including presidential chief of staff Muniir Ahmed Egal, have also attended live performances.
“All major music groups have been invited—Dayax Band, Xidigaha Geeska, the National Artists, and diaspora talent,” said Egal during Thursday’s event in Hargeisa. “It will also be a celebration for all Somalis who believe in the Somaliland cause.”
Among the most popular songs this year is a new track by BK, which includes the lyrics: “I helped the South, took the journey, and taught them how to build a foundation and act like a state.” Mustafe Dollar of Dayax Band has also drawn attention for his patriotic anthem: “You raised your nose with pride, and now you carry it.”
Beyond the concerts, schools and community centers across Somaliland are holding rehearsals and events in anticipation of the anniversary. Officials say this year’s celebration is one of the most expansive in years.