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Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Records Growth in International Passenger,Cargo Air Traffic

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Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Records Growth in International Passenger,Cargo Air Traffic
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The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has announced a significant increase in air traffic, driven by the launch of flights to Abuja, Lagos, and Mumbai, alongside the entry of new air operators into Uganda’s airspace.

This development marks a milestone in the country’s aviation sector, with a notable boost in both international passenger numbers and cargo volumes.

According to Fred Bamwesigye, the Director General of UCAA, these advancements are a result of strategic initiatives aimed at expanding connectivity and improving infrastructure.

“We are witnessing tremendous growth in our air traffic. This increase has been driven by new flight routes and the entry of additional operators, which enhance our capacity to serve international passengers and facilitate trade,” Bamwesigye remarked during a stakeholders’ breakfast engagement at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kampala on Tuesday.

Despite the positive trajectory, challenges persist. Shakila Rahim Lamar, Public Relations and Corporate Affairs Manager at Uganda Airlines while Addre journalist at Uganda media center, highlighted issues related to the export of Ugandan products.

“Much as there is progress, certain Ugandan exports that were gazetted in the 1970s remain restricted in the Indian market. This has been a barrier to fully utilising the capacity of our cargo flights,” she said.

She elaborated, “But Honorable Minister, I would like to inform you that we have had challenges, and I’m sure the ambassadors are aware of this. Through diplomatic relations or commercial diplomacy, we appeal to your good ministry to unlock the potential of some of these products. There is a lot of opportunity for Uganda in terms of ghee, avocados, pineapples, and other goods that we can export.”

In response, State Minister for Tourism Martin Mugarra Bahinduka pledged to engage with stakeholders to address these barriers.

“We are committed to negotiating and finding solutions that will unlock these markets and support our exporters,” he assured.

Upender Singh Rawat, the Indian High Commissioner to Uganda, reiterated his country’s commitment to fostering dialogue and removing trade restrictions. “India values its partnership with Uganda, and we are keen on facilitating trade relations to benefit both nations,” he stated.

On the infrastructure front, Bamwesigye revealed that the UCAA has completed the Modified Terminal Building at Entebbe International Airport, which opened to the public on January 10, 2024. The upgraded terminal offers enhanced space and comfort for arriving and departing passengers, underscoring UCAA’s commitment to improving the travel experience.

The authority has also adopted satellite-based navigation systems to complement terrestrial ones. “This technological advancement enhances safety, efficiency, and airspace capacity in all flight phases, aligning with international standards and best practices,” Bamwesigye noted.

Looking ahead, Bamwesigye emphasised the critical role of aviation infrastructure in upcoming events. “Uganda is scheduled to host CHAN and, later, the Africa Cup of Nations with Kenya and Tanzania in 2027. Aviation infrastructure will play a crucial role in facilitating these events, and we are committed to supporting their success,” he concluded.

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