Somalia eyes regional aviation expansion as PM Barre champions air connectivity

Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has underscored the strategic importance of aviation during the inauguration of Mogadishu’s first Commercially Important Person (CIP) Terminal at Aden Adde International Airport.

“Air travel is not merely about transportation, it is the bridge that connects Somalia to regional markets, global partners, and investment opportunities,” he said.

The PM’s remarks come at a time when Somalia is experiencing a noticeable increase in air traffic, particularly from Turkey, Nairobi, and countries across the Horn of Africa.

The growing frequency of flights linking Mogadishu to these destinations reflects expanding trade ties, diplomatic engagement, and renewed investor confidence.

Nairobi remains a key commercial gateway for Somali businesses, while Turkey continues to strengthen its economic and development footprint in the country.

At the same time, improved connectivity within the Horn of Africa signals Somalia’s re-emergence as an active regional player.

Against this backdrop of rising passenger numbers, the inauguration of the Arimas CIP Terminal marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s aviation modernization drive.

Designed to ease congestion at the main airport terminal and elevate service standards, the facility positions Mogadishu to compete more effectively with established regional aviation hubs such as the Kenyan capital and Addis Ababa.

The modern facility caters primarily to business-class travelers, diplomats, and high-profile passengers.

It offers dedicated check-in and passenger handling services, private VIP lounges, meeting rooms equipped for business engagements, cargo handling solutions, and aircraft ground support services.

By streamlining passenger flow and offering fast-tracked clearance procedures, the terminal enhances efficiency while prioritizing comfort, privacy, and security.

On departure, travelers are received in an exclusive lounge where check-in formalities are completed on their behalf.

Travel documents and luggage are processed by trained staff, after which passengers are transported by private vehicle directly to their aircraft.

Dining services offering buffet and à la carte options, high-speed internet, and executive meeting spaces further reflect the airport’s push toward international service standards.

The project is jointly financed by Somali investors and implemented through a partnership between Arimas and Favorite companies, both actively involved in airport modernization efforts.

The collaboration highlights sustained foreign investment interest in Somalia’s infrastructure sector, particularly aviation, which the government views as a catalyst for economic expansion.

Officials describe the CIP terminal as part of a broader strategy to transform Aden Adde International Airport into a competitive regional gateway.

While Somalia still faces challenges in matching the scale of established aviation giants, the steady rise in passenger traffic and targeted infrastructure investments signal determined progress.

As Prime Minister Barre emphasized, strengthening air connectivity is central to Somalia’s economic growth agenda, linking the country more efficiently to regional markets, facilitating trade, and reinforcing its position within the Horn of Africa and beyond.