Summary:

• The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) is considering relinquishing the management of Entebbe International Airport to focus on regulatory functions, following a proposal aligned with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) recommendations.

The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) is considering divesting from the management of Entebbe International Airport, focusing instead on regulatory functions. UCAA Director Fred Bamwesigye revealed this plan during the UCAA Stakeholders Engagement Breakfast Meeting at the Serena Hotel in Kampala, as part of the annual international aviation week. The proposed separation of regulation and airport management is still under internal discussion before a formal report is presented to the Cabinet for consideration.

The idea emerged during a keynote address by retired industry expert Barry Kashambo, who suggested that aligning with an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) recommendation would enhance oversight. Bamwesigye acknowledged the proposal, emphasizing that UCAA is open to it and is in the early stages of deliberation. Transport Minister Katumba Wamala expressed government support for the proposal, affirming that UCAA’s focus should be on regulation while airport management could be handled by a separate entity.

Kashambo, during a panel discussion, highlighted the potential conflict of interest when combining airport management and industry oversight. He criticized the low investment in African aviation and called for increased efforts to address deficiencies in regulation, personnel, safety, and security. Kashambo advocated for linking tourism to aviation to boost revenue, citing missed opportunities like the 1976 Entebbe attack. He also noted Africa’s meager 2% share in global aviation traffic and urged improvements in performance.

Minister Katumba Wamala praised Kashambo’s candid critique, emphasizing its value in improving the aviation sector. He urged Parliament, especially the Budget and National Economy Committees, to allocate resources strategically. The minister encouraged UCAA to ensure better performance in the upcoming civil aviation security audit and discussed ongoing expansion and modification at Entebbe International Airport ahead of an international conference in January 2024. UCAA Board Chairman retired Justice Steven Kavuma called for continued focus and commitment to further enhance Uganda’s standing in the aviation industry.