Mogadishu — Somalia is marking the 52nd anniversary of its unification, after Italy-British colonial rule, south and northern regions of the country.

A well-organized and multi-colored ceremony was held at Villa Somalia, the state house on Saturday midnight, to mark the union of the two provinces of south and north Somalia in 1960, this day July 1.

High-ranking Officials from Somali government, including the president Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed, ministers, army chiefs,Mogadishu mayor and district commissioners were at the event at Villa Somalia, to honor the national Independence Day.

Celebrations are underway in many towns in Somalia, including the capital where thousands of people took to the streets on Sunday, carrying the national flag with cheerful faces towards on this unforgettable occasion, the 52 anniversary of country's amalgamation.

Meanwhile, people in the towns of Baidoa, Beledweyne, Balad, and many other areas in south and central Somalia and controlled by the government are celebrating the national day.