According to sources familiar with the matter, the company dismissed nearly 70 Somali workers this week, some of whom had been employed at the airport for several years.
The reported layoffs have sparked concern among workers and labor rights advocates, who accuse the company of unfair employment practices. Sources also claim that some employees were presented with a difficult choice between relinquishing accrued employment benefits, including annual entitlements, or risking the loss of their jobs.
Workers who reportedly insisted on receiving their full benefits were allegedly informed that their employment could be terminated. The allegations have generated growing criticism and concern, with many describing the situation as placing undue pressure on Somali workers at one of the country’s most strategic facilities.
The controversy has also renewed scrutiny of the Federal Government of Somalia, which critics say has not responded adequately to recurring complaints involving foreign companies operating in the country. Questions are being raised about why relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and airport management officials, have yet to publicly address the allegations or announce a formal investigation into the matter.
Labor advocates argue that government institutions have a responsibility to ensure that Somali workers are protected under national labor laws and that employers operating in the country are held accountable for any violations. Critics further contend that if foreign companies are able to dismiss workers or impose conditions affecting employee rights without oversight, it could expose weaknesses in Somalia’s labor protection and regulatory systems.
The issue is likely to carry broader political weight as Somalia navigates federal power-sharing, regional competition and the search for stronger public institutions.
