Uganda successfully concluded its role as a pivotal host for the 15th International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Associations (IFATSEA) Africa Regional Meeting, a monumental event that has firmly placed the nation at the forefront of global aviation innovation and collaboration.
The three-day summit, held from June 17-19, 2025, at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo, served as a powerful testament to Uganda’s growing influence and capabilities within the international aviation landscape.
Hosted by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) in partnership with the Uganda Air Transport Engineering Association (UGATSEA), the meeting, under the theme “Digital Transformation in CNS/ATM: Strengthening ATSEP Competencies for a Safer and Sustainable Future,” drew over 100 distinguished aviation safety professionals and engineers.
Delegates from across Africa, including Angola, Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, Gambia, Niger, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, DRC, Kenya, and Tanzania and beyond the continent, converged in Kampala to shape the future of air traffic safety.
A Convergence of Minds, Catalyst for Progress
The summit was a vibrant platform for rigorous discussions on the transformative technologies that are rapidly reshaping the aviation sector.
Key themes explored included the revolutionary potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing safety and efficiency, the ever-critical domain of cybersecurity in protecting vital aviation systems, the advancements in predictive maintenance for seamless operations, and the innovative use of drone technology for flight calibration.
These rich sessions underscored a unified call for heightened regional collaboration, continuous innovation, and the crucial need for ongoing professional development for Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs).
In his closing remarks, Mr. Fred K. Bamwesigye, Director General of UCAA, expressed profound gratitude to all participants, emphasising the tangible outcomes of the gathering.
“We have explored vital themes around digital transformation in (Communication, Navigation and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) and the need to strengthen Air Traffic Safety Electronic Personnel (ATSEP) competencies to support a safer and sustainable future for aviation in Africa,” he stated.
“The discussions have been rich, the technical sessions enlightening, and the shared experiences truly inspiring,” he added.
Uganda’s Vision for the Future
Mr. Bamwesigye reaffirmed UCAA’s unwavering support for forward-looking initiatives, particularly highlighting the regional collaboration on the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, for flight calibration.
He lauded this as “a promising innovation that could greatly enhance efficiency and reduce costs in air navigation services,” signalling Uganda’s proactive embrace of cutting-edge solutions.
The meeting also carried symbolic weight for the entire continent with the historic election of Eng. Frank Kofi, the President of IFATSEA, as the first African to lead the Federation.
Mr. Bamwesigye extended special recognition to Eng. Kofi, underscoring this milestone as a powerful symbol of Africa’s rising influence and leadership in global aviation.
Opening Doors to Global Collaboration and Investment
Successfully hosting an international event of this magnitude is a significant achievement for Uganda.
It not only showcases the nation’s capabilities in managing complex logistical and technical gatherings but also serves as a powerful advertisement to the global aviation community in the following ways:
Enhanced Reputation
The smooth execution of the IFATSEA meeting elevates Uganda’s reputation as a reliable and capable partner in international aviation affairs.
Knowledge Exchange Hub
By facilitating discussions on advanced technologies and best practices, Uganda positions itself as a hub for critical knowledge exchange, attracting further expertise and collaborative projects.
Investment Opportunities
The exposure to Uganda’s aviation infrastructure and its commitment to technological advancement can attract foreign direct investment in related sectors, from air traffic management systems to maintenance facilities.
Networking and Partnerships
The presence of over 100 international delegates fostered invaluable networking opportunities, potentially leading to new bilateral agreements, technical assistance programs, and commercial partnerships that will benefit Uganda’s aviation sector.
As the curtains close on this landmark summit, Uganda stands taller on the global aviation stage, ready to embrace the future of air travel with confidence and collaboration.