MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – More than 460 workers at Adan Adde International Airport in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, staged a protest on Thursday against Favori, the Turkish company managing the facility. The workers allege widespread abuses, including unpaid wages, racial discrimination, and inhumane treatment.
Staff claim Somali employees receive significantly lower pay and benefits compared to their Turkish and Kenyan colleagues. Some workers reported earning as little as $0.70 to $3 for a nine-hour workday over an entire month. Complaints to management, they say, are met with threats of termination.
One worker described a colleague diagnosed with blood cancer who was dismissed without access to medical treatment or salary support. Female staff also allege discriminatory policies, including restrictions on pregnancy and denial of leave, even in cases of family emergencies. One worker recounted being forced to choose between attending to her hospitalized mother and facing permanent dismissal, or staying at work without any leave.
The protesters called on Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Prime Minister to intervene, highlighting that previous complaints have largely been ignored. Critics say the government’s reliance on Turkish financial and security support has complicated oversight, allowing Turkish companies to operate with impunity while running the airport, Mogadishu port, and other key facilities.
During the demonstration, workers displayed posters depicting colleagues who had been injured, neglected and dismissed. Those who sought help from Somali aviation officials said they faced threats, intimidation, and the risk of arrest. Some airport security officials reportedly told staff they were no longer needed.
Observers say the protests expose not only alleged abuses by Favori but also raise questions about the complicity of Somali authorities in permitting mistreatment of their own citizens.
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