The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), in collaboration with the Uganda Air Transport Safety Engineering Association (UGATSEA), is hosting the 15th International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Associations (IFATSEA) Africa Regional Meeting at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo.
The three-day conference, running from June 17 to 19, 2025, brings together safety engineering professionals from across Africa to discuss the latest developments in aviation safety and technology.
Eng. Ayub Sooma, the Director Airports and Aviation Security, who was speaking on behalf of the UCAA Director General, Fred Bamwesigye, said at the opening of the meeting, that, “The Authority takes pride in the innovations of its in-house engineering teams, who have developed indigenous solutions such as the Aeronautical Billing System, the Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS), and the Balanced Scorecard Strategy Tool, among others which are a testament to Uganda’s growing capability in delivering sustainable aviation technologies.”
“In line with global best practices, Uganda has also adopted advanced Air Navigation technologies, including use of satellite-based systems under Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), Direct Routing, which reduces emissions and flight time and Continuous Climb and Descent Operations, which enhance fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and environmental sustainability,” he added.
Digital Transformation in Aviation
Eng. Sooma noted that the conference 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,” highlights the importance of embracing digital technologies to enhance aviation safety and efficiency.
He explained that this regional meeting provides a platform for experts to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in the field of air traffic safety electronics.
Regional Collaboration and Knowledge-Sharing
The conference emphasises the importance of regional collaboration and knowledge-sharing in positioning Africa as a leader in global aviation innovation.
The Chairman of the Uganda CAA Board of Directors, Hon. Justice Steven Kavuma, through a message he delivered on behalf of the Minister for Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, highlighted the need for African countries to work together to drive innovation and progress in the aviation sector.
The 15th IFATSEA Africa Regional Meeting, which is being attended by over 100 participants from across Africa, including the President of the IFATSEA, Eng. Frank Kofi is a significant event that brings together experts in aviation safety and technology to discuss the latest developments and innovations in the field.
The conference provides a platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and capacity-building, which are essential for enhancing aviation safety and efficiency in Africa.
With Uganda at the helm, the meeting is set to make a lasting impact on the continent’s aviation industry.