Wednesday, June 17, 2026 (Baidoa Online) – The Jubaland administration has formally accused the Federal Government of Somalia of closing Doolow Airport in the Gedo region, describing the move as politically motivated and lacking any technical, security, or aviation safety justification.
In a statement issued by Jubaland’s Ministry of Transport and Aviation, the regional administration said it had received official confirmation that the airport had been shut down by federal authorities. Jubaland rejected the decision, arguing that it was not based on operational or safety concerns.
The ministry stated that the closure would have serious consequences for local communities, disrupting access to healthcare services, education, trade, humanitarian assistance, and the daily movement of residents in Doolow and surrounding areas.
Jubaland further noted that Doolow Airport had previously experienced a prolonged closure beginning on July 19, 2025, which it said caused significant hardship for the population and negatively affected economic and social activities in the district.
In strongly worded remarks, the ministry accused Mogadishu of using Somalia’s aviation management system as a political tool.
“The restrictions imposed on Doolow Airport are a clear example of how technical aviation authorities are being used to exert political pressure,” the statement said.
The regional administration also argued that the decision contradicts international civil aviation principles and standards promoted by the International Civil Aviation Organization, which emphasize neutrality, technical management, and the safe operation of air transport services.
Jubaland called for the immediate reopening of the airport and held the Federal Government responsible for any humanitarian, economic, or social consequences resulting from the closure.
The Federal Government of Somalia had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of publication.
