KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda is hosting the 15th International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Associations (IFATSEA) Africa Regional Meeting at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, bringing together aviation safety engineering professionals from across the continent to advance digital transformation, innovation, and regional collaboration in air navigation services.
The three-day conference, running from June 17–19, is organized by the Uganda Air Transport Safety Engineers Association (UGATSEA) under the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). It is being held under the theme: “Digital Transformation in Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS)/Air Traffic Management (ATM): Strengthening Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) Competencies for a Safer and Sustainable Future.”
In a keynote speech delivered on his behalf by UCAA Board Chairperson Hon. Justice Steven Kavuma, Minister of Works and Transport Gen. Katumba Wamala emphasized the urgent need for aviation engineers to keep pace with rapid technological advancements, particularly in the face of evolving tools such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and satellite-based navigation systems.
“The aviation industry is at a pivotal moment,” said the Minister. “While digital transformation is inevitable, it is the competence, integrity, and commitment of our engineers that will ultimately determine our safety and sustainability.”
Minister Katumba called for continuous professional development and investment in capacity building, urging stakeholders not to view training as a cost but as a vital investment in safety and innovation. He also highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, stressing that Africa must not simply follow global trends but actively shape the future of aviation on the continent.
The Minister extended his condolences to the victims of the recent tragic Air India accident and requested delegates to observe a moment of silence in their memory.
Speaking on behalf of the UCAA Director General, Director of Airports and Aviation Security Eng. Ayub Sooma highlighted the Authority’s strides in aviation technology, citing innovations such as the locally developed Aeronautical Billing System, the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), and a Balanced Scorecard Strategy Tool as examples of Uganda’s growing capacity in sustainable aviation solutions.
He noted that Uganda has also implemented advanced air navigation procedures aligned with global standards, including Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), Direct Routing, and Continuous Climb and Descent Operations—initiatives that improve fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and environmental sustainability.
“Our in-house engineering teams have shown that local solutions can drive national and regional transformation,” said Eng. Sooma.
The meeting has drawn over 100 participants from across Africa and includes the presence of IFATSEA President Eng. Frank Kofi. Delegates are engaging in technical sessions and collaborative discussions focused on strengthening the competencies of ATSEPs—the often-unsung engineers who ensure the seamless functioning and safety of communication, navigation, and surveillance systems across Africa’s skies.
Justice Kavuma, echoing Minister Katumba’s remarks, urged delegates to use the platform to share experiences, foster innovation, and chart a path for Africa to lead in aviation safety systems and digital transformation.
As the conference continues, Uganda positions itself not only as a host nation but as a growing center of excellence in aviation technology, capacity development, and regional cooperation.
