Cabinet Secretaries James Macharia (Transport) and Joseph Nkaissery (Interior) were at hand to receive the first flight, marking the resumption of direct flights from Mogadishu to Nairobi after close to 10 years suspension.
Speaking at the event, CS Macharia said the historic resumption of direct flights between the two cities signalled a revitalization of cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
“For us in the transport sector, we have always been working to boost Nairobi’s position as a regional aviation hub.
“With the opportunities available in the region and the improved security environment and stability following the recent election of President Mohamed, the resumption of direct flights could not have come at a better time,” CS Macharia said.
Mr Macharia disclosed that before the re-launch of the direct flights, Government security agencies formed a multiagency team which travelled to Mogadishu to assess the security situation of the airport.
This was followed by the setting up of robust security arrangements at Mogadishu airport to oversee the flight routes and departure procedures in order to ensure the safety of passengers travelling between the two countries.
The re-launch of direct flights between Nairobi and Mogadishu was agreed upon at bilateral talks between Kenya and Somalia that were led by President Uhuru Kenyatta and Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed during his first State Visit to Kenya last week.
For the last 10 years, flights from Mogadishu were landing at Wajir airport for thorough screening and vetting of passengers before proceeding to Nairobi.
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