Leverage aviation to unlock regional trade — Works minister
"Right now, we are at 72.64% safety rating globally, but we are also at 81.6% security rating globally. We are competing favourably, both in the region, on the African continent, but also globally."
Ababu Namwamba, Kenya High Commissioner to Uganda, and the Works and transport minister, Fred Byamukama, among other officials launch the return of Jambojet to Uganda’s skies at Entebbe International Airport on 1st October 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
ENTEBBE - Works and transport minister Fred Byamukama has advised Ugandans to leverage aviation as an engine to spur regional economic growth.
“Aviation is a catalyst for regional integration, economic growth and social development. Basically, enhanced air connectivity is essential for unlocking opportunities in trade, tourism, investment and innovation,” he said on Thursday (October 1).
This was at Entebbe International Airport during the launch of the return of Jambojet to Uganda.
The minister said the Government is committed to supporting regional integration initiatives and also strengthening transport linkages that bring East Africans together.
“A connected region is a competitive region, and a competitive region is better positioned to attract investment, create jobs and improve livelihoods.”
“I appreciate all airlines operating through Entebbe International Airport under the Airline Operators Committee. Every flight you operate carries not only passengers but also opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and cultural exchange.”
The Government intends to continue providing the infrastructure and policy support necessary for the growth of the aviation sector.
Byamukama said the return of Jambojet is more than the resumption of flights between Entebbe and Nairobi; it also contributes directly to the East African Community vision of a more connected, integrated and prosperous region.
For decades, Uganda and Kenya have enjoyed strong diplomatic and economic relations founded on mutual respect, cooperation, and a common commitment to regional prosperity.
Passengers leaving the plane as airlines officials look on during the launch at Entebbe International Airport on 1st October 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
'Demand is strong'
Addressing delegates during the launch, the Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Fred Bamwesigye, said they are keeping watch on the safety record, safety and security, and also sustainability of Uganda's aviation sector.
"Right now, we are at 72.64% safety rating globally, but we are also at 81.6% security rating globally. We are competing favourably, both in the region, on the African continent, but also globally."
As a result of this record, Bamwesigye said airlines are returning.
“Passenger traffic has been growing steadily, rising from 118 in 1991, when UCA started, to now 2.48 million passengers. Since this is not the passenger numbers we want, we are actually working towards getting six million passengers."
Fred Byamukama, Works and transport minister, Fred Bamwesigye, UCAA Director General together with other officials look at the water cannon salute of the jet at Entebbe International Airport on 1st October 2026. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Jambojet, Patricia Ithau said they first flew in Uganda in 2018, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to step back.
“We are returning to Uganda because the demand is strong and there is a huge opportunity. Since Jambojet first flew to Entebbe in 2018, the airline has undergone significant transformation."
Ithau said they have built a stronger network, expanded their fleet, carried more than 10 million passengers, and strengthened the capabilities required to operate a larger and more resilient airline.
“We want to see more Kenyans coming to Uganda for business, tourism, investments, and to experience all that this country has to offer. We commit to serve this market well, listen to its needs and grow with it."