Jowhar(Mogadishu24)-The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of ATMIS, Ambassador Mohamed El-Amine Souef, alongside the Head of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), Assistant Secretary-General Aisa Kacyira, inaugurated four newly constructed helipads at Jowhar Airfield on Monday.

The helipad project, valued at $1.4 million, marks a major milestone in improving logistics, mobility, and operational support for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and its successor mission, AUSSOM.

Critical Infrastructure for Resilience and Security

Ambassador Souef highlighted the helipads’ importance in addressing security challenges, particularly in areas where Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threats often hinder road access.

“These helipads will enhance aviation capabilities for personnel transport, delivery of critical equipment, rations, water supplies, medical evacuations, and support for ground operations,” Ambassador Souef stated.

The helipads are expected to improve operational flexibility, enabling ATMIS troops, UN personnel, humanitarian workers, and Somali government officials to reach Jowhar swiftly and safely.

Tripartite Collaboration in Action

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, ASG Aisa Kacyira, Head of UNSOS, praised the success of the tripartite collaboration between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), ATMIS, and UNSOS.

“These helipads will provide safe landing zones for aircraft and bolster ATMIS’s operational capabilities. We are here to showcase the positive impact of collaboration in overcoming challenges and building resilient infrastructure,” Kacyira said.

The helipads will play a key role in facilitating swift responses to security, humanitarian, and operational needs in Jowhar and the broader Hirshabelle State region.

Strategic Location Amid Security Challenges

Jowhar, located 90 kilometers north of Mogadishu, remains a strategic hub for both Somali authorities and international partners. Due to security threats, including Al-Shabaab’s hit-and-run attacks along the road to Jowhar, the city is often accessed via helicopters and private chartered planes.

The newly inaugurated helipads will ensure safer and more efficient access to the city, reducing reliance on vulnerable ground transport.

Broad Attendance and Support

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including:

• Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma, ATMIS Force Commander
• AIGP Hillary Sao Kanu, ATMIS Police Commissioner
• Ivan Manuel Lopez, UNSOS Chief of Service Delivery Management
• Mukhtar Abukar, Jowhar Airfield Manager
• Representatives from Hirshabelle State

Mukhtar Abukar welcomed the project, emphasizing its role in strengthening Somalia’s infrastructure and supporting peace and stabilization efforts.

Symbol of Resilience and Progress

The helipads symbolize hope, resilience, and preparedness for Somalia, as they enable ATMIS and its partners to continue their mission effectively in a challenging security environment.