A Ugandan military helicopter operating under the African Union mission crashed while landing at Mogadishu’s international airport, killing three people and injuring several others. The aircraft was carrying eight personnel from Balli-doogle airfield.
Eyewitnesses saw the helicopter spin out of control before it hit the ground and exploded. Emergency crews rescued survivors, but two passengers remain unaccounted for. Uganda’s military confirmed ownership of the aircraft, and an investigation is underway.
This marks the third crash involving Ugandan helicopters in Somalia since 2023, raising concerns about equipment safety and crew training. In a 2024 incident, four soldiers survived a crash, and three senior officers were later court-martialed.
The African Union mission relies heavily on helicopters for troop transport and medical evacuations. These repeated crashes underscore operational risks and the need for better aviation support.
soldiers serving far from home, risking their lives for regional peace. Their loss demands not only investigation but accountability and reform.
