Somalia: Farmajo extends his greetings to citizens on Eid al-Adha

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The President of the Federal Government of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo extends his heartfelt greetings to the Somali people as they celebrate today the Eid al-Adha, Garowe Online reports.

In a statement released by the presidency, Farmajo highlighted the importance of the occasion of Eid al-Adha for Muslims, which marks the end of Hajj, the holy annual Islamic pilgrimage to the sacred city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.

As Somalia celebrates Eid al-Adha Sunday, the president wished citizens in the country and abroad Eid Mubarak, saying it is a time for thoughtful reflection, selflessness, passion, and unity among Muslims.

“We mark Eid Al-Adha as our heroes in the armed forces are liberating new areas, where the terrorists in the past used to harm our people and orchestrate attacks against the people of Somalia,” read the statement in part.

In addition, President Farmajo has called on all Somalis to stand by and remember those who are less fortunate and don't have the means to put smiles on the faces of their children in the festive days.

In light of the threat posed by Al-Shabab, authorities mounted heavy security checks around the presidential palace following an attack at Mogadishu municipality headquarters last month, which killed several, including the mayor.

The leaders of the long-chaotic country urged citizens to continue to work together to build a stronger, more prosperous Somalia and expressed optimistic about greater peace and stability across the nation.

Eid al-Adha marks the end of the yearly Islamic pilgrimage, called Hajj— a mandatory duty for all mature Muslims who have the physical and financial means to carry out at least once in their lifetime.

GAROWE ONLINE