When most people think of African independence, they envision jubilant crowds celebrating, flags waving, colonial banners being lowered, and the birth of new nations; but as seen in nine countries, these celebrations are far from uniform and often differ in significant ways.
- Ethiopia, one of the few uncolonized nations, commemorates its sovereignty through events like the Victory of Adwa.
- Independence Day celebrations across Africa vary significantly, reflecting unique historical experiences.
- Some nations like Liberia and Somaliland mark independence differently due to specific socio-historical contexts.
- Rwanda and South Africa emphasize days representing liberation and justice rather than traditional independence.
For certain countries, the historical context is too complex, too painful, or too unique to align with the conventional narrative of liberation from European colonial powers.
In some cases, independence was achieved under unusual circumstances, rather than through the familiar struggles against British, French, or Portuguese rule.
Other countries were never formally colonised, while in certain instances, independence became associated with national trauma instead of liberation.
Moreover, several territories continue to face contested or incomplete sovereignty, rendering their relationship with Independence Day far more nuanced and complex than a simple celebration of freedom.
Here are nine cases that reveal the diversity of Africa’s independence narratives
Ethiopia
Ethiopia is one of the only African nations never formally colonised, apart from the brief Italian occupation (1936–1941). As a result, it does not celebrate an Independence Day in the conventional sense. Instead, Ethiopia commemorates its long-standing sovereignty and resilience through national holidays such as Victory of Adwa (2 March), which marks its 1896 military victory over Italy, a defining moment in African anti-colonial history.
Liberia
Liberia declared independence on 26 July 1847, making it Africa’s oldest republic. However, its independence was not from a European colonial power but from its unique origins as a settlement of freed African Americans and freeborn Black migrants. This makes Liberia’s Independence Day distinct: it is less about liberation from colonialism and more about the assertion of sovereignty by a state born under unusual, transatlantic circumstances.
Somaliland
On 18 May 1991, Somaliland declared independence from Somalia following years of civil war and conflict. Within its borders, Independence Day is observed with parades and national pride. Yet, Somaliland remains internationally unrecognised, meaning its sovereignty is not acknowledged by the African Union or the wider international community. For its citizens, it is a deeply meaningful commemoration, even as the world refuses to recognise their statehood.
Rwanda
Rwanda does not celebrate Independence Day (1 July 1962) with much enthusiasm, as independence from Belgium was quickly followed by internal division, instability, and ethnic tensions. Instead, Rwanda emphasises Liberation Day (Kwibohora) on 4 July, which commemorates the 1994 victory of the Rwandan Patriotic Front and the end of the genocide. The day symbolises national unity, reconciliation, and the building of a new Rwanda, making it a far more meaningful date than independence itself.
Western Sahara
The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) proclaimed independence on 27 February 1976 after Spain withdrew. However, Morocco controls most of the territory, and the sovereignty of Western Sahara remains one of Africa’s longest-running disputes. As a result, its “Independence Day” is observed largely in exile and among supporters of the Sahrawi cause, with no recognition from the majority of the international community.
South Sudan
South Sudan became the world’s newest nation on 9 July 2011, after breaking away from Sudan following decades of conflict. However, more than a decade on, official Independence Day celebrations are frequently cancelled due to political instability, civil war, and economic crisis. For many South Sudanese, independence has not yet delivered the peace or prosperity they hoped for, making the commemoration a painful reminder of unfulfilled aspirations.
South Africa
South Africa does not celebrate a traditional Independence Day, as its sovereignty from Britain in 1910 brought little freedom for the majority of its people. Instead, it marks Freedom Day on 27 April. This date commemorates the first democratic, non-racial elections held in 1994, which ended apartheid rule. Freedom Day highlights social justice, equality, and dignity, making it a celebration of true liberation rather than formal sovereignty.
Namibia
Namibia gained independence on 21 March 1990, after decades of occupation, first by Germany, then by apartheid South Africa, which administered the territory for nearly 70 years under a system of racial classification and segregation. The liberation struggle, led by SWAPO, was deeply connected to the broader anti-apartheid movement. Namibia’s Independence Day is thus a celebration of both sovereignty and the rejection of racial oppression.
Eritrea
Eritrea’s Independence Day, celebrated on 24 May 1993, marks the end of a gruelling 30-year war against Ethiopian rule. Following a UN-supervised referendum, Eritrea was officially recognised as an independent state. Independence Day is therefore not just a holiday but a solemn reminder of immense sacrifice and resilience. Celebrations include parades, concerts, and memorial events that honour those who fought and died for freedom.
