Somali Minister Hails UPDF Troops For Barawe Airport Renovation

Somalia’s State Minister of Endowment and Islamic Affairs, Eng. Abukar Jeylani, has commended Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) troops serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for their role in renovating Barawe Airport.

Speaking during a meeting with local government leaders and security officials at the airport headquarters, Jeylani commended the troops for their professionalism and commitment.

“This renovation will strengthen connectivity and support ongoing stabilisation efforts in the region,” he said.

The minister praised the UPDF’s patriotism and Pan-African spirit as a reflection of the strong Uganda–Somalia ties, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with security forces to achieve lasting peace.

The State Minister of Constitutional Affairs, Ambassador Ilyaas Sheikh Omar, said feedback from the local community indicated growing confidence in the troops’ discipline and conduct.

Battle Group 45 Commander, Colonel Justus Musenene, said that the airport is now fully operational following the completion of renovation works by AUSSOM/UPDF engineers.

“Despite challenges, we have successfully completed the renovation, and the airport is now fully functional,” he said.

Col Musenene attributed the troops’ discipline and professionalism to the ideological foundation that guides the UPDF, and the troops remain committed to mentoring the Somali National Army (SNA) to sustain peace and stability.

Battle Group 45 Engineer, Maj Charles Baraza, said the renovation was completed within a short timeframe and now meets recognised airport standards.

Barawe Airport Manager, Mohamed Nureini, expressed appreciation to AUSSOM/UPDF troops for their swift intervention, noting that the airport has resumed flight operations.

The minister was accompanied by Barawe District Commissioner Umaru Abdulahi Mahammad, 06 Brigade Commander Col. Abdurahuman Elmi, the Barawe District Police Commander, and senior and junior officers from both the UPDF and the Somali National Army.