MOGADISHU – The Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Federal Government of Somalia, Abdifatah Qasim Mohamud, has extended his congratulations to Somalis and Muslims worldwide on the occasion of the Islamic New Year 1448 AH.
In his message marking the beginning of the Hijri year, the minister wished Somalia and its people peace, stability and prosperity. He prayed that the country would remain on a path of unity and development, with lasting progress and wider opportunities for citizens across the nation.
The Islamic New Year, also called the Hijri New Year, marks the start of the Islamic lunar calendar and commemorates the migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Mecca to Medina, a defining moment in Islamic history. Muslims around the world observe the occasion through prayers, reflection and goodwill messages, while leaders in many Muslim-majority countries use the day to call for peace, reconciliation and social cohesion.
The federal government has previously called for reconciliation and political stability as Somalia entered 2026, urging citizens to embrace dialogue and warning against polarising politics amid ongoing political tensions. Minister Abdifatah Qasim Mohamud has also called for unity and reconciliation in previous Islamic New Year messages, reflecting a consistent government emphasis on social cohesion during religious observances.
Hijri New Year in the Somali Context
The minister’s message comes as Somalia works to strengthen security, advance development and promote national unity amid continuing political and economic challenges. The occasion of the Hijri New Year provides an opportunity for reflection on the country’s progress and the work that remains to be done.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has previously issued New Year’s messages to the Federal Government, calling on Somalis to unite and build a prosperous nation. Similarly, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has offered prayers for Somalia at the start of the new year, wishing for security, progress and unity.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
The Hijri calendar, which began with the Prophet’s migration in 622 CE, is one of the two main calendars used in Islamic countries, alongside the Gregorian calendar. The first month of the Hijri year is Muharram, one of the four sacred months in Islam. While the start of Muharram is marked differently across Islamic traditions, the first day is generally observed as a public holiday in many Muslim-majority countries.
The Islamic New Year is a time for Muslims to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. The migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina represents the establishment of the first Islamic community and the beginning of the Islamic calendar. The occasion serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice, perseverance and faith.
