Syrian refugees in Somalia have joyfully celebrated the fall of Bashar Al Assad’s regime by distributing sweets in Mogadishu and Hargeisa, reflecting on their warm reception and the bond between Somali and Syrian people throughout the refugee crisis, while recognizing Africa’s role as a haven for many Syrians during the war.
Footage captured by The Wall Africa Journal showed Syrian refugees in Mogadishu, Somalia distributing sweets in celebration of the fall of Bashar Al Assad’s regime. This symbolic act of joy follows years of Syrian exile in the Horn of Africa, where thousands of Syrians fled to Somalia in search of safety from the brutal regime’s crackdown. The Somali people had warmly welcomed the refugees when the Syrian crisis began, opening their homes to those fleeing war, torture, and killings. Today, many Syrians are celebrating their ability to return home, feeling a sense of liberation from the oppressive rule they escaped.
Syrians in Somalia, particularly in the capital Mogadishu and Hargeisa, have formed a vibrant community across the Somali region. The Somali people’s hospitality and solidarity are reflected in the warmth with which Syrians were received during their time of need. As one Somali citizen expressed, “Our Syrian guests distribute sweets in Mogadishu in joy of the fall of the regime,” underscoring the bond between the two communities.
The fall of Assad’s regime marks not only a significant moment for Syria but also a time of reflection for the Somali people, who remember the hospitality they received when they were refugees during their own conflicts. Thousands of Syrian refugees, who fled the horrors of war and the regime’s brutality, are now raising their flags and celebrating their hard-won freedom.
Africa hosted thousands of Syrians during the crisis, providing sanctuary and a chance to rebuild their lives, including Somalia, which continues to host over 34,000 refugees and asylum seekers from various countries, including Ethiopia, Yemen, and even hundreds from Syria. In Hargeisa, Syrians took to the streets in celebration, their flags waving high in the air, marking a historic moment for the community. The generosity of Somalis is evident in their welcoming of refugees, including Syrians who can live, work, and set up businesses without visa restrictions. This celebration is a reminder of the solidarity among African nations, as countries across the continent, including Ethiopia, welcomed Syrians who found refuge in various communities.
In Ethiopia, Syrians have found not only refuge but also opportunities to contribute to society as doctors, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs, reflecting the integration and resilience of the refugee population. Rabi Aladin, manager of a popular Syrian restaurant in Addis Ababa, said, “Many Syrians know of Ethiopia through the Holy Quran, which mentions ancient Ethiopia as a place of refuge for the first Muslims.” This shared history is a testament to the bond between the two cultures.
The celebration of the fall of the Assad regime by Syrian refugees in Somalia highlights the resilience and hope of a people who found sanctuary in a foreign land. As these refugees return to Syria, many will carry with them the memories of their time in Somalia and the kindness of its people. The Somali government continues to provide support to its refugee population, reflecting a commitment to humanitarian principles even as it deals with its own challenges.