In a direct intervention, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has issued instructions to restructure the leadership of Uganda Airlines. The presidential letter, addressed to Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, highlights the need to address ongoing management weaknesses at the national carrier.

According to the letter, Mr. Girma Wake has been appointed as a Consultant and Acting CEO to work alongside the Uganda Airlines Board until a permanent CEO is selected, expected by July 2026. President Museveni emphasized that this appointment is intended to strengthen management oversight and operational performance.

The directive also instructs the current Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki, to step aside immediately to allow a smooth transition. The Board has been tasked with ensuring that all emoluments due to Ms. Bamuturaki are processed without delay.

This move underlines the President’s hands-on approach in correcting leadership challenges at Uganda Airlines, ensuring that the airline is better positioned for efficiency and growth.

Experts note that Girma Wake, a seasoned aviation executive, brings extensive experience to the airline, providing strategic guidance and operational management during this transition. His appointment is expected to stabilize the airline and enhance its competitiveness.

This development follows earlier reports about potential leadership changes at Uganda Airlines, covered in our previous article on Uganda Airlines executive transition.

What this means for Uganda Airlines:

- Direct presidential oversight ensures swift implementation of reforms.

- Leadership gaps are temporarily addressed while a new CEO is identified.

- The airline can focus on improving operational efficiency and expanding its market presence.

As Uganda Airlines prepares for a new chapter, industry watchers will be closely following how Girma Wake’s leadership influences the airline’s growth and performance in the coming months.