The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has launched a licence renewal exercise for aviation service providers as part of efforts to improve standards and strengthen regulation within the country’s aviation industry.
The exercise began with a stakeholder engagement meeting involving members of the licensing committee and industry players. The meeting focused on improving professionalism, safety, and compliance within the aviation sector.
Speaking to journalists, UCAA deputy director general Olive Birungi Lumonya said the authority is committed to ensuring that all aviation companies operating in Uganda meet the required standards.
Lumonya revealed that Uganda currently has 15 aviation companies engaged in various aviation businesses. However, only five of them have valid operating licences.
“We must be professional in this field if we are to provide the best services to our people,” she said.
She explained that UCAA has a responsibility to assess the standards maintained by each company before renewing licences.
“As the regulator, it is our responsibility to ascertain the standards of every company, beginning with the aircraft they operate and ensuring that all regulations are followed. These companies must undergo assessment within a specified period before their licences are renewed,” Lumonya said.
She noted that the licensing exercise will help ensure that all aviation operators remain compliant with national and international aviation requirements.
Lumonya also said the government is investing heavily in the development of aviation infrastructure across the country.
She cited ongoing works at several regional and international airports, including Gulu, Kasese, Kabalega, Kisoro and Kidepo airports.
According to Lumonya, these airports will play a key role in promoting tourism, improving connectivity and supporting economic development.
“These airports are important enablers for boosting tourism in the country,” she said.
However, she acknowledged that the recent Ebola outbreak has negatively affected both the tourism and aviation sectors.
Lumonya said the outbreak has led to a significant decline in revenue due to reduced travel and fewer international visitors.
“The country has lost a lot of revenue because travel has reduced. We are no longer receiving as many international visitors because of fears associated with Ebola,” she said.
Despite the challenges, UCAA remains optimistic that continued investment in aviation infrastructure and stronger regulatory oversight will position Uganda’s aviation sector for future growth.
