Uganda’s aviation industry has entered a new era of credibility and recognition under the current administration of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority. The turning point came in February 2024 when the International Civil Aviation Organization conducted the Universal Security Audit Programme – Continuous Monitoring Approach. The audit assessed Uganda’s compliance with international standards and recommended practices, and the results placed Uganda above both the regional and global averages.
Director General Fred K. Bamwesigye emphasized the importance of this achievement, telling stakeholders, “Most importantly, the ICAO USAP‑CMA results for Uganda were above the regional average of 64.5 percent and the global average of 72.36 percent. It is a vote of confidence in Uganda’s aviation security system.” His remarks captured the pride of an institution that has worked tirelessly to modernize its systems.
The audit results were not achieved in isolation. They were supported by the Civil Aviation Authority (Amendment) Act of 2024, which empowered inspectors with unrestricted access to aircraft, aerodromes, and aviation facilities. Thirty‑four regulations were amended to align with ICAO standards, ensuring Uganda’s aviation framework was fully compliant with international conventions. This legal reform strengthened oversight and created a predictable environment for operators.
Stakeholders welcomed the reforms. A senior representative from the Ministry of Works and Transport noted during the engagement breakfast, “Uganda’s aviation sector is now recognized internationally for its compliance. This is not only about security but about building investor confidence in our aviation infrastructure.”
The reforms coincided with a surge in traffic. Entebbe International Airport registered 2,243,104 international passengers in 2024, up from 1,932,094 in 2023. Cargo exports rose to 44,865 tons, while imports reached 22,233 tons. Commercial aircraft movements increased to 32,552, and overflights rose to 25,137. These figures demonstrate that Uganda’s aviation industry is not only compliant but also growing.
Regional airports also recorded improvements. Arua saw traffic rise by 92 percent, Mbarara by 118 percent, and Pakuba by 52 percent. The total traffic at regional airports grew from 31,186 passengers in 2023 to 39,626 in 2024. These statistics highlight the administration’s commitment to spreading aviation development beyond Entebbe.
Safety initiatives reinforced this progress. Two new fire trucks were commissioned, and the first Safety Week was held in November 2024. A hazard identification tool was launched, and Emirates partnered in safety activities, including a foreign object debris walk and community engagement at Nakiwogo market. These initiatives demonstrated that safety culture is now embedded in Uganda’s aviation industry.
The administration also prioritized environmental sustainability. Measures such as green procurement, air quality monitoring, and ICAO’s CORSIA carbon offsetting scheme were adopted. These steps ensure that Uganda’s aviation growth is environmentally responsible.
As Bamwesigye reminded stakeholders, “For us, it is an opportunity to interact with you, our valued stakeholders, and update industry players on milestones attained in the course of the past year, provide an update on plans for 2025, and get valuable feedback for continuous improvement.” His emphasis on dialogue reflects the administration’s philosophy: transformation is not only about infrastructure but also about trust.
Uganda’s aviation industry has gained global confidence through compliance, modernization, and growth. The ICAO audit results are a symbol of this transformation, positioning Uganda as a credible hub in regional and international aviation.
