Mogadishu (Waagacusub Media) – A major crisis has erupted at Aden Adde International Airport after Favori LLC, the Turkish company managing the airport, suspended and dismissed several Somali employees without explanation, causing near-total paralysis of airport operations.

According to eyewitnesses and airport staff, no workers were available to handle passenger baggage or terminal operations on Tuesday morning, leaving arriving and departing flights in disarray. Several airlines were forced to delay operations as baggage handling and ground services came to a standstill.

The dismissed Somali workers say Favori’s management replaced them with foreign nationals, a move they described as "blatant discrimination and exploitation.” Protesters gathered outside the airport demanding government intervention, holding placards calling for "justice and fair employment.”

 Government Intervention and Ministerial Directive

In a letter dated September 18, 2025, Somalia’s Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Hon. Mohamed Farah Nur, issued a stern directive to Favori Company over severe sanitation and management failures at the airport.
The letter, addressed to the company’s management, ordered immediate replacement of washroom equipment, full cleaning and disinfection of terminals, and urgent measures to stop untreated wastewater discharge within the airport premises.

The Ministry described Favori’s performance as "unacceptable for a facility of international status” and warned that public health, safety, and Somalia’s international reputation were at risk.

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⚖️ Prime Minister to Visit Airport Amid Labor Protests

Reliable sources told Waagacusub Media that Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre is scheduled to visit Mogadishu’s airport soon to personally assess the situation and listen to the grievances of the dismissed workers.

The protesting employees claim they have formally lodged their complaints with the Prime Minister’s office and expect him to ensure their reinstatement and protection from what they describe as Favori’s abusive practices.

Voices from the Ground

A senior police officer at the airport, identified as Commander "Gaalkacyo”, confirmed that his unit was deployed to monitor the ongoing protests and maintain calm. "The workers are frustrated. They have families and have been loyal for years, but were suddenly replaced,” he said.

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Growing Outrage Over Favori’s Management

This latest incident marks a new low in Favori’s controversial tenure managing Somalia’s main international gateway.
Over the years, the company has faced accusations of mistreating local staff, evading labor laws, and ignoring ministerial directives.

Somali citizens and media commentators have called on the government to review or terminate Favori’s contract and to ensure that Somali workers are treated with dignity and fairness.

By Dahir Alasow

Investigative Journalist

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 Waagacusub Editorial Note:

Waagacusub Media will continue to monitor this developing story closely and provide updates on the government’s response and the workers’ demands in the coming days.