Jenifer Bamuturaki’s job at Uganda Airlines hangs by a thread after the board resolved to readvertise the position of chief executive officer, sources have told Bbeg Media. Positions of other directors are also likely to be re-advertised.
The move could mean the end of Bamuturaki’s time at the national carrier, which has been characterized by one battle after another.
Multiple sources told us that the board, chaired by Priscilla Mirembe Sseruka, made the decision last week during a meeting in which many expressed concern about Bamuturaki’s poor performance, which some say could affect the airline’s long-term sustainability.
We have also been told that President Museveni okayed the move.
Uganda Airlines was revived in 2019 with high public expectations, but the carrier has continued to post large losses. According to reports presented to parliament, the airline recorded a net loss of about Shs 324.9 billion in the 2022/ 2023 financial year.
In 2023/2024, losses fell but remained substantial at about Shs 237.8 billion.
Recently, many people who use the airline have complained of poor service, rampant flight cancellations, and persistent flight delays
Bamuturaki’s tenure has also been marked by controversy. Before she was appointed chief executive in 2022, she had previously served as commercial director at Uganda Airlines but was dismissed in 2019 by an earlier board. Her return to the airline sparked criticism, with lawmakers raising concerns about the recruitment process and her suitability for the top job.
Parliamentary probes have questioned how her appointment was handled, including claims that the recruitment process was altered and concluded abruptly. The airline’s leadership has also faced scrutiny over procurement practices, route decisions and allegations of conflict of interest, all of which have fuelled public debate about governance at the state owned carrier.
While Bamuturaki and Uganda Airlines management have previously defended their record, arguing that losses are expected in the early years of a national airline, pressure has continued to mount as deficits persist and government support remains critical to operations.
