As global aviation increasingly relies on interconnected digital systems, the threat of cyberattacks looms larger than ever. Recognising this critical vulnerability, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has taken a proactive and significant step by hosting a two-day Cybersecurity Workshop, which commenced on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Imperial Golf Course Hotel in Entebbe.
This vital gathering aims to significantly strengthen cybersecurity awareness and institutional capacity within Uganda’s thriving aviation sector, ensuring its resilience against evolving digital dangers.
The workshop’s official opening by Ms. Sabah Ahmed, UCAA’s Director of Human Resources and Administration, highlighted the paramount importance of cyber resilience in modern aviation.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Ahmed said, “The security and stability of our organisational cyberspace relies on our ability to prevent and respond to cyber incidents.”
“As we embrace digital transformation, we must also build trust and confidence in our cyber systems,” she added.
UCAA’s Commitment to Cybersecurity
She noted, however, that this isn’t UCAA’s first foray into bolstering its digital defences. It marks the fourth cybersecurity workshop organised by UCAA’s IT Department, reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to building a secure and resilient digital environment.
This consistent effort, according to Ahmed, aligns with stringent global aviation standards set by bodies like the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which developed a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy for the global civil aviation sector.
Navigating the Digital Skies
The two-day workshop is designed with ambitious objectives to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the complex landscape of cyber threats. The workshop intends to explore the following;
Understanding Cyber Risks and Mitigation Strategies
According to Ahmed, the aviation sector is a prime target for cybercriminals due to its critical infrastructure, vast amounts of sensitive passenger data, and interconnected operational technologies (OT).
Threats range from ransomware attacks that can paralyse operations to data breaches compromising personal information, and even attacks on aircraft systems themselves. As such, the workshop will delve into identifying these sophisticated threats and developing effective strategies to prevent, detect, and respond to them.
Application of ICAO’s Cybersecurity Framework
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) provides a robust framework and detailed guidelines for aviation cybersecurity.
This includes principles for international cooperation, governance, effective legislation, information sharing, incident management, and capacity building.
Ahmed pointed out that the workshop will ensure UCAA and its stakeholders are not just aware of, but actively implementing, these global best practices to ensure harmonised security measures.
Exploring the Role of Emerging Technologies
She noted that as aviation embraces digital transformation, it also explores cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions. In light of this, the workshop will examine how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be leveraged for enhanced threat detection, predictive cybersecurity (identifying potential attacks before they occur), automated incident response, and even strengthening the security of AI applications within aviation systems.
It is important to note that AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data and identify anomalies faster than humans makes it an invaluable tool in the fight against cyber threats.
Collaborative Front Against Cyber Threats
The success of aviation cybersecurity hinges on a collaborative approach across the entire ecosystem. The workshop has brought together a diverse group of participants, including IT specialists, Airline representatives, Immigration officials and other key stakeholders, among them ground handling, air traffic management, and technology providers, all of whom form part of the interconnected aviation supply chain.
Ahmed reiterated that this multi-sectoral participation ensures a coordinated approach to bolstering the sector’s preparedness and response to the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats.
By investing in continuous cybersecurity awareness and capacity building, UCAA is not only fulfilling its mandate to ensure the safety and security of Uganda’s airspace but also solidifying its position as a responsible and forward-thinking player in the global aviation community.
This workshop is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to building a resilient digital environment, safeguarding its critical aviation infrastructure, and ensuring continued trust and confidence in air travel.