Vice President Jesca Alupo urgently advocates for the liberalization of Africa’s aviation industry, emphasizing that air transport is the “business of freedom.”
Alupo, representing President Yoweri Museveni at the 55th African Airlines Association (AFRAA) AGA in Kampala, highlights how air travel reduces time and distance, fostering economic and social integration.
The grand event, themed “Strides to Transform Aviation for Development,” opens with pomp. Uganda Airlines, led by CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki and President of AFRAA, proudly hosts the summit. Alupo underscores air travel as crucial for Africa’s continental integration, given the limitations of rail and road infrastructure.
To achieve this, Alupo stresses the importance of trust, built on equity, give-and-take, and commitment to common rules. Uganda Airlines’ revival aims to enhance the country’s competitiveness and serve as an extension of national infrastructure.
Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works for Transport, highlights Uganda Airlines’ expansion to 13 destinations, signifying a dynamic market. He expresses Uganda’s commitment to playing a major role in African aviation’s development and growth, welcoming the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).
While supporting a liberal African air transport market, Gen. Katumba clarifies that SAATM is a process. Uganda has initiated steps to align its legal regime with SAATM principles, with a commencement date announcement forthcoming.
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