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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Galmudug State President Ahmed Abdi Karie on Thursday toured the construction site of Ugaas Nuur Airport, a major infrastructure project that is expected to boost connectivity, trade, and development in central Somalia.
The two leaders were accompanied by government officials, engineers, and local administrators who briefed them on the progress of the work. According to the engineers, the project is moving forward as planned, with modernization efforts designed to bring the airport up to international standards. Once complete, the facility is expected to serve as a critical transport hub for Galmudug and beyond.
The development of Ugaas Nuur Airport comes at a time when Somalia is placing strong emphasis on rebuilding infrastructure as part of wider stabilization and development efforts. For decades, conflict and instability have weakened basic services and slowed economic growth. The government believes that investing in modern transport facilities such as airports will not only improve mobility but also play a vital role in reviving local economies, creating jobs, and opening opportunities for business.
Officials say the new airport will improve air travel by providing safer and more reliable services for both domestic and international flights. The project will make it easier for people and goods to move in and out of the region, cutting travel times and reducing reliance on poorly maintained roads. In addition, the facility is expected to strengthen Somalia’s aviation sector, which has been steadily growing in recent years.
The Ugaas Nuur project also carries strategic importance for humanitarian and security operations. With central Somalia facing recurring droughts, displacement, and security challenges, the airport will give aid agencies and government forces quicker access to communities in need. This is seen as an important step in strengthening the government’s ability to respond to crises and extend services to remote areas.
Local businesses and community leaders have welcomed the development, expressing hope that the new airport will open up opportunities for trade. Galmudug’s economy, which relies heavily on livestock, farming, and small-scale commerce, has long been limited by poor transport infrastructure. A functional airport is expected to make it easier for traders to reach markets in Mogadishu and other cities, as well as connect the region to international buyers.
Speaking during the inspection, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud underlined the government’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that directly benefits citizens. He said that the Ugaas Nuur project demonstrates Somalia’s determination to rebuild after years of conflict and to lay a foundation for sustainable development. President Ahmed Abdi Karie echoed this, noting that Galmudug stands to benefit greatly once the airport is operational.
In recent years, Somalia has made significant efforts to rebuild airports across the country as part of a broader plan to modernize the aviation sector. Facilities in Mogadishu, Kismayo, and other regional centers have seen upgrades aimed at improving capacity, safety, and service delivery. The Ugaas Nuur Airport in Galmudug is part of this wider push to ensure all federal member states have access to modern infrastructure that can support growth and stability.
Observers note that projects like Ugaas Nuur carry symbolic weight as well. They reflect progress in state-building, signaling to citizens and the international community that Somalia is gradually moving forward despite ongoing challenges. For local communities, the airport represents hope for a better future where mobility, trade, and services are not constrained by poor infrastructure.
As construction continues, officials say timelines remain on track. Once complete, the airport is expected to provide Galmudug with a major logistical advantage, enhance regional commerce, and contribute to the government’s long-term vision of a connected, stable, and prosperous Somalia.