June 26th: Somalia

Today is Independence of British Somaliland day - a public holiday in Somalia. So here are ten thing you might not know about Somalia.

1. The capital and largest city is Mogadishu, known locally as ‘Xamar’.
2. Somalia is thought by many to be the location of the ancient Land of Punt, known as a trading partner of ancient Egypt. It was known for producing and exporting Gold, aromatic resins, blackwood, ebony, ivory, and wild animals.
3. Today the economy is largely based on livestock, foreign money transfers and telecommunications. Somalia produces 90% of the world's myrrh and frankincense.
4. It's thought to be the first country to domesticate Camels. 25% of the world's camel population lives here, and there are 46 different words for camel in the Somali language.
5. Somalia has the longest coastline on Africa's mainland: 3,025 kilometres (1,880 mi).
6. Somalia's highest peak, Shimbiris, is about 2,416 metres (7,927 ft) high.
7. The vast majority of the population are Muslims. There are no public places of worship for the 0.2% of the population who follow other faiths. It's thought Islam was introduced into Somalia well before the faith even took root in its place of origin, due to a group of persecuted Muslims who sought refuge there.
8. The Flag was designed by Mohammed Awale Liban. It consists of a five-pointed white Star of Unity on a light blue background. The blue was chosen to recognise the role of the United Nations in the country's transition to independence, and denotes the sky as well as the Indian Ocean.
9. There were no cash machines in Somalia until 2014.
10. Poetry is an important part of the country's culture. Poems are written for important occasions like weddings and births, and also the opening of new businesses. Opening ceremonies for businesses often include the presentation of a poem especially written to mark the start of the company.