In a significant achievement for Uganda’s aviation sector, the Director General of Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Fred K. Bamwesigye, has been appointed to the prestigious Global Executive Committee of the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO). This appointment positions Uganda at the heart of global aviation decision-making and marks another milestone in Africa’s growing influence in international air transport governance.

The appointment came during CANSO’s 29th Annual General Meeting held in Lisbon, Portugal on May 15, 2025, coinciding with the Airspace World 2025 event. Bamwesigye’s nomination by CANSO Africa and subsequent unanimous approval by the global body demonstrates the international aviation community’s confidence in his leadership capabilities. He takes over from Dr. Muhammad Mousa, former Director General of ASECNA, as a Member at Large on this influential committee.

This development represents more than just personal recognition for Bamwesigye; it serves as a testament to Uganda’s growing stature in global aviation affairs and Africa’s increasing role in shaping the future of air navigation worldwide. The CANSO Global Executive Committee functions as the organization’s governing board, holding responsibility for CANSO’s overall performance, including critical decisions such as appointing the Director General, approving budgets, and formulating policies that affect air navigation services across the globe.

The committee’s structure reflects CANSO’s global reach, comprising five regional CEO Committee Chairs representing CANSO’s geographical divisions (serving as Ex Officio Members), five elected Members at Large, and two representatives from Associate Members. While Ex Officio Members serve one-year terms, other committee members like Bamwesigye hold their positions for three years, providing continuity in leadership and policy direction.

Bamwesigye’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for global aviation as the industry continues to recover from pandemic-related disruptions while simultaneously addressing challenges like climate change, technological transformation, and growing air traffic demands. His position on the committee will allow him to contribute African perspectives to these critical discussions while ensuring Uganda’s aviation interests receive global consideration.

For Uganda, this achievement underscores the country’s commitment to excellence in aviation management. Under Bamwesigye’s leadership, UCAA has made significant strides in improving Uganda’s aviation infrastructure and services, including the ongoing expansion of Entebbe International Airport and implementation of modern air traffic management systems. His new role will likely create opportunities for Uganda to benefit from international best practices while showcasing the country’s aviation expertise to the world.

The African aviation community has celebrated the appointment as a continental victory. It demonstrates that African aviation professionals can compete for and secure top positions in global aviation governance, challenging the traditional dominance of Western and Asian representatives in such roles. Bamwesigye’s presence on the committee ensures that Africa’s unique aviation challenges and opportunities will receive appropriate attention in global policy discussions.

Industry experts suggest that Bamwesigye’s appointment could accelerate several key initiatives for African aviation, including the implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), harmonization of air navigation standards across the continent, and increased investment in aviation infrastructure. His position provides a direct channel for African concerns to reach the highest levels of international aviation decision-making.

As Bamwesigye assumes his new responsibilities, aviation stakeholders in Uganda and across Africa anticipate tangible benefits from his participation in global aviation governance. These may include enhanced technical cooperation, increased training opportunities for African aviation professionals, and greater visibility for the continent’s aviation sector on the world stage.

The appointment also reflects positively on Uganda’s civil aviation authority, validating its operational standards and management practices. International recognition of this nature often leads to improved confidence among airlines, investors, and aviation partners, potentially translating into more flights, better services, and increased tourism for Uganda.

Looking ahead, Bamwesigye’s three-year term on the CANSO Global Executive Committee will undoubtedly influence Uganda’s aviation development trajectory while contributing to shaping the future of global air navigation. His dual role as UCAA Director General and CANSO executive member positions him uniquely to bridge global aviation policies with local implementation, ensuring Uganda remains at the forefront of aviation innovation and safety standards.