(01 Sep 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – Former President of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, has strongly condemned emerging plans to transfer the management of Somali airspace to a foreign country, labelling it as a grave threat to the nation’s sovereignty and security.
In a recent statement, Farmaajo criticised the proposed move, which reportedly involves handing over air traffic control to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He described it as a significant “setback to the hard-fought efforts of rebuilding Somalia,” emphasising that the management of Somali airspace was restored through the dedication of Somali experts, local resources, and strategic diplomatic engagements.
“Controlling air traffic is crucial to the national security and independence of our country. The desire to transfer this control undermines the sacrifices made to strengthen our government,” Farmaajo stated, highlighting that Somalia’s air management system has achieved Class A status in aviation within just a few years. He expressed deep disappointment, accusing “personal interests” of driving the decision, which he believes could jeopardise the nation’s aviation infrastructure and the remarkable progress made by local professionals.
In response to the growing concerns, the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) issued a press release reaffirming the country’s control over its airspace. The SCAA stressed that Somali airspace is a national symbol and underscored the substantial progress made since it was reclaimed by the Somali government.
“The air of Somalia is a national symbol, and it has made significant progress since it returned to the hands of the Somali government. The Somali Civil Aviation Authority declares to the Somali nation that it is not possible for the country’s air to operate in Somalia, and there is no plan known by the government to make this possible,” the SCAA stated, dismissing the possibility of foreign control over the country’s airspace.
As this issue continues to unfold, it has sparked a heated public debate, with many Somalis voicing their concerns and calling for transparency from the government. The coming days are likely to see further developments as the government and the public grapple with the implications of this controversial proposal.
Halqabsi News
