This morning, hundreds of Somali workers at Aden Ade International Airport went on strike. The strike has caused a lot of disruption, delaying flights and affecting airport operations across the board. The workers’ anger comes from reports that Turkish company Favori LLC is replacing Somali staff with foreign workers. Many of the new employees do not speak Somali, which has added to the frustration.
The local workers feel this is unfair. They believe that Somali citizens should have priority when it comes to jobs in their own country. For years, these employees have worked hard to keep the airport running smoothly, and now they feel their rights are being ignored. The strike shows how serious this issue has become, as hundreds of people are willing to stop work to make their voices heard.
Why Workers Are Angry
The main reason for the strike is the replacement of Somali employees with foreign nationals. According to workers, Favori LLC, the Turkish operator managing some airport services, has started hiring people from outside Somalia. Many of these new workers do not speak the local language, making communication difficult. The workers argue that this decision not only threatens their jobs but also affects airport efficiency.
Employees have shared their frustration openly. Some say they have worked at the airport for years and have developed skills and experience specific to the Somali aviation sector. Now, with foreign workers taking their positions, they feel their hard work is being ignored. Many fear that if the trend continues, Somali workers may be pushed out of one of the country’s most important airports entirely.
Impact on Airport Operations
The strike has already caused major disruptions. Hundreds of flights have been delayed or canceled, creating chaos for travelers. Families waiting to visit relatives, businesspeople traveling for meetings, and tourists arriving in Somalia are all affected. Airport officials have said that operations are running slower than usual because key staff are not at their posts.
Some passengers expressed frustration. One traveler said, “We understand that workers want to protect their jobs, but the delays are causing problems for all of us. I hope the government steps in quickly.” While many sympathize with the workers, others are worried about how long the strike might last and how it will affect travel plans.
Call for Government Intervention
The striking workers have called on the Somali government to intervene. They want the administration to ensure that Somali citizens are given priority in employment at Aden Ade International Airport. Local workers feel that the government has a responsibility to protect its people and to prevent foreign companies from unfairly replacing them.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reportedly been made aware of the strike. Many people are urging him to take action quickly to resolve the situation. Workers want the government to speak with Favori LLC and demand that Somali staff are retained or that they are at least given equal opportunities alongside foreign hires.
The Importance of Local Employment
This strike highlights a larger issue in Somalia: the importance of protecting local employment. Many young people are struggling to find jobs, and skilled workers are concerned that foreign companies might take opportunities that should belong to Somalis. Airports, hotels, and other major businesses are seen as key areas where local workers should be prioritized.
By standing up for their rights, these airport employees are sending a message: Somali workers deserve respect, fair treatment, and the chance to build a career in their own country. The protest is not just about one company; it is about safeguarding the rights of Somali citizens in the workplace.
Public Support and Awareness
The strike has drawn public attention across Somalia. Many local residents are supporting the workers, sharing their concerns on social media and calling for fair employment practices. People have expressed pride in the courage of the workers, noting that it takes bravery to protest against powerful companies.
Some citizens have highlighted the long-term benefits of keeping jobs for local workers. They argue that when Somali employees are hired, it supports the economy, improves standards of living, and ensures that skills stay in the country. Replacing them with foreign workers might save companies money in the short term, but it can hurt the community in the long run.
The Challenges of Foreign Hiring
Favori LLC’s decision to hire foreign workers presents several challenges. First, language barriers can slow down operations. Airport work often requires clear communication, especially in security, customer service, and flight coordination. Workers who cannot communicate effectively with passengers or colleagues create risks and inefficiencies.
Second, foreign workers may not fully understand Somali culture or customer needs. This can lead to mistakes and frustrations among travelers. Local workers argue that they are better positioned to serve the public because they understand both the language and the local customs.
Finally, hiring foreign staff over locals can create resentment and tension in the workplace. Workers may feel undervalued and demoralized, which can affect overall productivity and morale. The strike itself is a clear sign of these tensions reaching a breaking point.
Looking Ahead: What Needs to Happen
Many hope that the government will step in quickly to mediate between the striking workers and Favori LLC. Solutions could include:
Ensuring that Somali workers are not unfairly replaced.
Creating clear hiring policies that prioritize local employees.
Offering training programs for both local and foreign staff to improve skills and communication.
Setting up a dialogue between the government, workers, and the company to prevent future disputes.
The goal is to find a fair solution that protects local jobs while allowing businesses to operate efficiently. Both sides need to work together to ensure the airport remains a safe, reliable, and welcoming place for travelers.
A Wider Message for Somali Workers
This strike is more than just about Aden Ade International Airport. It sends a strong message to businesses and policymakers across Somalia: local workers matter. Protecting the rights of Somali employees is essential for economic growth, social stability, and national pride.
By standing up for themselves, these airport workers are showing that ordinary citizens have the power to make change. They are reminding the government and foreign companies that Somali people deserve a fair chance to earn a living and contribute to their country’s development.
Conclusion
The strike at Aden Ade International Airport is a turning point for Somali workers. Hundreds of employees have taken a stand against unfair job replacements, demanding respect, fairness, and government intervention. The protest has caused flight delays and disrupted airport operations, drawing attention to a critical issue: the need to protect local employment.
As the country watches closely, the hope is that a solution will be found that balances the interests of workers, companies, and travelers. Somali workers are showing courage, unity, and determination. Their fight is a reminder that protecting local jobs is not just an economic issue—it is a matter of justice and national pride.
If handled carefully, this strike could lead to positive changes, ensuring that Somali citizens are given fair opportunities in their own country. For now, the eyes of the nation are on Aden Ade International Airport, waiting to see how this important dispute will be resolved.
