In the Comoros, the government addressed the grievances of approximately fifty employees from Anjouan Airport who were laid off last weekend. During a press conference on March 3 in Moroni, the Minister of Transport announced that the restructuring also affects employees in Mohéli and the General Directorate of Airports in Comoros (ADC). In addition to the 57 employees dismissed at Anjouan, 25 positions were eliminated at Mohéli and 9 at the ADC. Ultimately, ADC will retain only 111 employees from the 205 it previously employed, with authorities emphasizing that these measures are not politically motivated but rather essential for the agency's survival.

Minister Hassane Alfeine Yasmine stressed the inevitability of these layoffs, citing financial challenges since an Emirati company took over the management of the international airport a year ago. The changes reflect broader economic pressures facing the aviation sector in the Comoros, which has struggled to maintain profitability and efficient operations. The government has positioned the layoffs as part of a strategic restructuring aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of airport operations.

This decision raises concerns regarding job security and economic stability for those affected, amid fears that the downsizing could significantly impact local employment rates in Anjouan and Mohéli. The communication from the government appears to be aimed at preempting backlash while justifying the necessity of these tough decisions, which may lead to further scrutiny of investment partnerships like the one with the Emirati firm, as the government seeks to balance fiscal responsibility with public sentiment and economic necessity.