Uganda has achieved a significant milestone in expanding its global aviation footprint by successfully concluding a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with the Republic of Argentina.
This strategic new partnership, alongside the signing of a reviewed BASA with Qatar, marks a major step toward enhancing Uganda’s international air connectivity, trade, and tourism prospects.
The agreements were finalised during the ongoing ICAO Air Services Negotiation (ICAN2025) event, which is taking place in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, from November 10th to 14th, 2025.
Unlocking the Africa-South America Corridor
The conception of the BASA with Argentina holds particular significance as it formally establishes an air transport relationship between the two nations, opening a new corridor for business and travel between Africa and South America. The BASA will benefit the two countries in the following ways;
Trade and Tourism
The agreement creates crucial opportunities for increased air connectivity, trade, and tourism flows between both nations. For Uganda, this means easier access to the Argentine market for exports and the potential to attract South American tourists, diversifying its inbound travel markets.
Strategic Expansion
This move aligns with Uganda’s broader strategy to position itself as a key economic and aviation hub, connecting East Africa to the rest of the world.
Strengthening Key Partnerships
In addition to the new agreement with Argentina, the Ugandan delegation successfully signed a reviewed BASA with Qatar. This review strengthens an already vital relationship, particularly given Qatar’s extensive global reach and significant role in international air freight and passenger transit.
The signed Memorandum of Understanding ensures the existing air services framework remains modern, efficient, and mutually beneficial.
Uganda’s Strategic Vision
Uganda’s delegation at ICAN2025, led by Ms. Olive Birungi Lumonya, Deputy Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), comprises key officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport and Uganda Airlines. Their presence underscores the government’s wholesome approach to leveraging air transport as a driver of national economic growth.
According to Lumonya, the delegation’s ongoing engagements with other states at the ICAN forum are focused on:
Global Network Expansion: Further strengthening Uganda’s international aviation network.
Economic Support: Supporting the country’s strategic vision for air transport growth, which is critical for facilitating exports, attracting foreign investment, and boosting the tourism sector.
The conclusion of the BASA with Argentina and the reviewed BASA with Qatar solidify Uganda’s proactive stance in the global aviation arena, promising a future of increased accessibility and economic opportunity.