By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 23 April 2026 Somalia’s Prime Minister denied the federal government closed Doolow airport, as Jubaland accused Mogadishu of ignoring the shutdown.
The Prime Minister made the remarks during an event in Mogadishu Thursday, stating “the Federal Government is not responsible for the closure of Doolow airport,” directly addressing a long-standing dispute.
Shortly afterward, Jubaland’s Information Minister, Abdifitah Mohamed Mukhtar, posted a response on Facebook, blaming the federal government for the closure.
The remarks from the two officials highlighted the disagreement between the federal government and Jubaland over who is responsible for the airport’s closure.
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Doolow airport has been closed since 2024, following a political dispute between the federal government and Jubaland that escalated into armed confrontation, significantly disrupting the movement of people and cross-border trade in the region.
The town of Doolow, located in the Gedo region, holds strategic importance due to its proximity to the borders of Ethiopia and Kenya. It serves as a key hub for cross-border trade, population movement, and humanitarian operations linking the three countries.
The airport closure has had a significant impact on local residents, traders, and humanitarian agencies, as Doolow remains a critical access point for aid delivery and regional connectivity.
Despite the federal government denying responsibility, no clear resolution has yet been reached between the two sides, raising concerns over the economic and humanitarian consequences of the ongoing impasse.