UCAA Reaffirms its Commitment to Implementing the Liberalization of Air Transport Across Africa.

By Abraham Lincolns | Kampala

The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the liberalization of air transport across all countries in the African continent.

While in a one-on-one discussions with our reporter, the UCAA Director General Fred Bamwesigye reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to liberalizing air transport and strengthening fair competition frameworks following a continental workshop held in May 2026.

Bamwesigye stressed that open skies require matched fair competition to avoid market distortions and the growth of Uganda Airlines is intended to help Uganda secure balanced reciprocal benefits under open skies.

The Director General emphasized that the aviation remains a key pillar of economic transformation across the continent and it’s the reason the sector is strengthening fair competition frameworks as part of broader efforts to integrate into Africa’s single air transport market. “Aviation is far more than transportation; it is a driver of economic growth, trade, tourism, and regional integration,” he said adding that a connected Africa is a competitive Africa.

Bamwesigye urged that while initiatives such as the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area offer major opportunities, liberalization must be backed by fair competition. “Open skies must be matched with fair competition,” he said. “Without strong competition frameworks, liberalization can lead to market distortions, unfair practices, and reduced consumer confidence.” He added.

Uganda, though not yet a full member of SAATM, is taking concrete steps toward compliance. As a signatory to the Yamoussoukro Decision, the country has already implemented key measures such as multiple airline designation, unlimited frequencies, and the granting of fifth freedom traffic rights on regional routes.

Airlines including RwandAir and Kenya Airways are already benefiting from these arrangements. “We are taking deliberate and practical steps toward liberalization and regulatory readiness. These include strengthening our legal framework and aligning our regulations with continental standards.”

One of the milestones highlighted was the enactment of Uganda’s Competition Act in 2024, as well as the establishment of a Consumer Protection Unit within UCAA.

“We have developed draft Civil Aviation (Competition) and Consumer Protection Regulations aligned with continental frameworks, with promulgation expected by June 2026,” he added, confirming that internal consultations on joining SAATM are nearing completion.