The Minister of Transport and Aviation of South West State, Mohamed Hussein Hassan, on Monday praised the AUSSOM UPDF forces for their effective role in ensuring security at the Baraawe Airport in Lower Shabelle.
During his assessment visit to the facility, accompanied by senior local administration officials and UPDF officers, Minister Hassan underscored the strategic importance of the airport for regional connectivity, humanitarian access, and economic growth. He called on the troops to further strengthen security measures to safeguard the airport and surrounding areas. The Minister also reaffirmed the South West administration’s commitment to deepening cooperation with AUSSOM in support of regional stability and infrastructure protection.
Representing the Commander of Battle Group 45, Lt. Col. Geoffrey Ochan, Col. Justus Musenene welcomed the Minister’s visit, noting that such engagements boost morale and reflect the strong support of the government. He reiterated UPDF’s continued commitment to protecting the people of Somalia and securing key facilities such as Baraawe Airport, which plays a vital role in service delivery, commerce, security operations, and regional development.