Barawe, 27 April 2026 – Somalia’s State Minister of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Engineer Abukar Jeylani, has commended the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Ugandan troops for their technical expertise and professionalism in the successful renovation of Barawe airport.
Minister Jeylani said this when he met with AUSSOM Ugandan troops, the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), and local government leaders at the airport headquarters in Lower Shabelle on 26 April. The meeting aimed to synchronise security efforts and celebrate the successful renovation of the facility.
“Thank you for the great work done to improve the airport,” he said. “As a government, we are ready to cooperate and work with you to achieve success.”
Minister Jeylani praised the Ugandan contingent for their engineering skill and the Pan-African spirit that defines their mission in Somalia, highlighting the enduring bond between Uganda and Somalia as a cornerstone toward restoring peace and stability.
State Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Amb. Ilyaas Sheikh Omar, echoed Minister Jeylani’s remarks, pointing to the positive reception from the local population as a key indicator of the mission’s Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC).
“I have interacted with the local community, and they are very pleased with your discipline and professionalism,” said Amb. Omar.
The project, spearheaded by AUSSOM Sector One engineers, has transformed the facility into a fully functional transport hub.
Col. Justus Musenene, Commander of Battle Group 45, confirmed that the airport is now operational despite the logistical hurdles faced during construction.
“Despite challenges such as limited resources, we have successfully completed the renovation, and the airport is now fully functional,” he said.
Col. Musenene further reaffirmed AUSSOM’s commitment to supporting capacity building and mentoring the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) to sustain peace and stability in the region.
Major Charles Baraza, the Battle Group 45 Engineer, said the upgrades, completed within the set timeframe, meet the required standards.
Mr Mohamed Nureini, Barawe Airport Manager, thanked the AUSSOM troops for the swift intervention, confirming that the facility is now open for operations.
The meeting was also attended by Barawe District Commissioner Umaru Abdulahi Mahammad, 06 Brigade Commander Colonel Abdurahuman Elmi and military and police commanders in the region.
