ATMIS, UNSOS Inaugurate New Helipads to Boost Operations in Jowhar

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.