26 June – International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Somalia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, with the longest coastline on mainland Africa. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and a history that includes periods of civil unrest. The country is officially a federal parliamentary republic.

As of 2023, the estimated population of Somalia is approximately 17.7 million people. The population is largely young, with a significant nomadic and semi-nomadic population.

The official languages of Somalia are Somali and Arabic. Somali is the mother tongue of the Somali people, while Arabic is widely spoken due to religious and historical ties.

The vast majority of the population belongs to the Somali ethnic group, which is divided into various clans. There are also minority ethnic groups, including Bantu and Benadiri communities.

Somalia operates as a federal parliamentary republic. The political system is based on power-sharing among various clans.

As of June 2025, the current president of Somalia is Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who was elected in May 2022.

Somalia's economy is predominantly based on pastoralism (livestock, camel, goat, sheep), remittances from the diaspora, and telecommunications. Agriculture, particularly banana and frankincense, also plays a role. There is growing interest in the country's potential oil and gas reserves.

Despite past challenges, Somalia offers potential for tourism with its extensive pristine beaches, historical cities, and diverse landscapes. Areas like Mogadishu and Berbera have developing tourism sectors, though security remains a consideration.

Notable sites include the ancient rock art of Laas Geel, the historic city of Zeila, the ruins of Mogadishu Cathedral, and the beautiful Jazeera Beach near Mogadishu. The old quarter of Mogadishu, often referred to as Shanghai Old City, also holds historical significance.