MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has officially launched the restoration of the International Air Transport Association’s Billing and Settlement Plan (IATA-BSP), a system the government says Somalia has regained after 35 years, Arlaadi Media Network reports.
Barre said the milestone followed years of work to reform institutions, develop regulatory frameworks and policies, and train personnel capable of taking on responsibilities in the management of the country’s aviation sector.
He linked the restoration to broader efforts to rebuild state institutions and strengthen Somalia’s economy, citing debt relief, economic growth, the country’s entry into the East African Community and the gradual transfer of national security responsibilities to Somali forces.
The prime minister said stronger coordination among government institutions and investment in national capacity were central to Somalia’s recovery. He highlighted opportunities in transport, agriculture and other productive sectors, pointing to the country’s strategic location connecting regional and international markets.
“I congratulate the Somali people on this major step,” Barre said, adding that the government was committed to further developing and strengthening national institutions.
He also praised the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation and the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, urging them to accelerate improvements to airports, airspace management and aviation services.
The government says strengthening the aviation sector will help improve services for passengers and airlines and enhance Somalia’s links with the rest of the world.
The restoration of IATA-BSP is intended to support airline ticket sales and the settlement of payments between participating travel agents and airlines. Its practical impact will depend on implementation, participation by airlines and travel agents, and the system’s operational coverage in Somalia.
