These photos personally touched me in different ways. I have spent almost all of my life in the Diaspora having left Ethiopia (Somali Region/Diredawa) at the age of 8.
This photo kept me warm, comforted me, memorized me and took me on a journey while I was in high school and university. Whenever I went to the library computers, this was my escape. The one that eased my mind...this is why now I am all politician hahahahaha. I have to admit I really I'm.
This is a photo of Dhagaxtuur statue (Upraise - literally meaning 'stone throwing') in Mogadishu, Banadir, Somalia. It is a magical photo, look at the blue sky, ocean, white buildings, white statue, the ever green scenery and the modern street lights. Very iconic and memorable. No idea who took this photo but I remember I used to view these photos on Marka Cadey which was originally Hamarweyne.com - I want to thank the brother (Abukar) who now owns Universal TV, he was the one behind that website and I have worked with him on several projects.
Dhagaxtuur commemorates the Somali upraise in 1949 led by Somali Youth League against the British forces. Two Somalis were killed and further five wounded. It was the birth of Somali nationalism.
The Nomad - This image is probably the most widely used image by Somalis and others in regards to Somalia and the Somali people. This was the typical Somali nomad wearing traditional clothe and brushing his teeth with Somali toothbrush. Very iconic. Undisputed heavyweight.
The Smile - Somali nomadic boy again with the famous smile and lively eyes. Looks directly in that lens. Very iconic image widely used throughout the internet. It is not clear who photographed this image.
The SNM Rebel - A Somali rebel from the Somali National Movement points his AK47 at Siad Barre, the last Somali dictator. This picture captured a moment in history in a such simple and moving way. Siad Barre regime carried out the biggest genocide in the north where this rebel group was operating for years. There is strength visible in this photo from the rebel as he stands above his former abuser and yet he gently smiles like saying "I got you - what now?".
SOMALINIMO - This picture taken more than a decade ago has remained with Somalis since day one. It has became part of the new identity of Somalis itself and is often used as source for those who want to set up Somali cultural workshops and exhibitions.
The beautiful girl is like a queen and portrays the Somali culture in such powerful manner.
NEW LIFE - This photo taken by Eric Lafforogue (2011) shows a young Somali teenager carrying a newly born baby camel near Zeila in Somaliland region. For centuries the camel carried us but when they give us a new life, if they are in danger or its time to relocate and newly born can't yet walk, we carry them.
It is a powerful picture that needs attention from all the youngsters born in the Diaspora who don't know the love their parents had for their things even camels, goats, chickens...it is all about cherishing and valuing what you have. (more on this photo: - Thank You Eric).
QALANJO - This photo is again taken by Eric!! He took it while visiting Hargeisa in Somaliland region in November 2011 and speaks for itself. The beauty of the Somali girls. Their warm smile melts any heart. This photo celebrates anything and everything about Somali girls. One of my favorite photos!!
More on this photo: (Job well done Eric and I hope you visit us again).
I do like to hear from you all and what YOU consider iconic and what you don't agree with what I have posted.
I don't know where to start and what on earth are you talking about.
