By Diana N. Kintu
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed former Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer, Mr Girma Wake, as Acting Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Airlines in a move aimed at strengthening leadership and stabilising the national carrier.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of Works and Transport, Katumba Wamala, the President directed that Mr Girma be engaged as a Consultant and Adviser to the airline while simultaneously serving as Acting CEO until July 2026. The appointment, according to the President, is temporary and intended to provide strategic guidance as the airline prepares to recruit a substantive chief executive before the end of the year.
Mr Girma is widely regarded as a seasoned aviation executive, having previously led Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s most successful and profitable carriers. During his tenure there, the airline expanded its fleet, widened its international route network and strengthened its financial performance, earning global recognition. His experience is expected to play a critical role in addressing organisational shortcomings within Uganda Airlines and steering it towards greater operational efficiency.
The appointment follows the recent resignation of the outgoing CEO, Mrs Jenifer Bamuturaki, who had served in the role since 2022. President Museveni instructed that she step aside immediately and hand over office to Mr Girma and the Board. He further directed the Board to organise all emoluments due to her and ensure a smooth and orderly transition in leadership.
Earlier this month, Uganda Airlines advertised the position of Chief Executive Officer on its official website, inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates. The advertisement signalled the Government’s intention to conduct an open and competitive recruitment process to attract competent leadership for the national carrier.
Speculation about Mr Girma’s appointment intensified after President Museveni shared photographs of their meeting at State House on his official social media platform. In his post, the President noted that he had met Mr Girma alongside Mr Robert Kateera to discuss matters concerning air transport and other issues. The post sparked widespread reports suggesting that Mr Girma had already been confirmed as CEO.
However, officials clarified at the time that although the meeting had taken place, formal approval of any appointment was still pending. The subsequent communication from the President has now confirmed Mr Girma’s interim role and outlined the scope of his responsibilities.
In his directive, President Museveni called for reforms within the airline, pointing to leadership and management gaps that have affected performance. He stressed that the interim appointment is intended to restore confidence, strengthen corporate governance and enhance operational stability. The Government views a well-managed national carrier as essential to promoting tourism, trade and regional connectivity.
Uganda Airlines, which was relaunched in 2019 after nearly two decades of inactivity, has faced scrutiny over governance structures, financial sustainability and management practices. Despite expanding its route network to include regional and international destinations, the airline has encountered operational and financial challenges typical of young carriers operating in a highly competitive market.
Mr Girma’s stewardship is therefore expected to focus on institutional reforms, improved financial discipline and strategic planning. Industry observers note that his track record in building Ethiopian Airlines into a continental powerhouse could provide valuable lessons for Uganda Airlines as it seeks to consolidate its position within East Africa and beyond.
As the airline enters this transitional phase, stakeholders — including Government, employees, passengers and development partners — will be watching closely to assess the impact of the leadership changes. The coming months are likely to determine whether the reforms translate into improved service delivery, stronger financial performance and renewed public confidence in Uganda’s aviation ambitions.