Like the saying goes a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, barely five years after the National Resistance Movement government (NRM) had taken over power Civil Aviation Authority was born (established) by an act of Parliament and started operating in a small office at Uganda House with a grand vision to resurrect and revamp Uganda’s Aviation Industry that had collapsed due to the Political Instability that had characterized the pearl of Africa. Twenty five years later the dream has become a reality thanks to the foresighted and great leadership that was exhibited by the then CAA Managing Director Ambrose Akandonda. With 1.5 million passengers now travelling at Entebbe International Airport unlike in 1991 when passengers numbers were just 118,000 Civil Aviation Authority has grown into one of the most revered institutions in Uganda, East Africa region and the African Continent.
Dr. Rama Makuza who took over from Ambrose Akandonda has been able to build on the successes and achievements of his predecessor and this culminated into the celebration of CAA’s Silver Jubilee (25 years anniversary).
Speaking at a dinner that was organized at Serena Hotel on Thursday Dr. Makuza hailed all the stakeholders and Individuals who have journeyed with CAA through the 25 years and have provided tremendous support to the success of CAA.
“Along the way, we have received tremendous support from a number of individuals and stakeholders who have seen us through the various challenges that the industry faces”, Makuza said.
Makuza also revealed that with the acquisition of US Dollar 200m loan from Exim Bank this year the upgrade and expansion of Entebbe International Airport has commenced with the following.
- Implemented Electronic Terrain Obstacle Data (ETOD) to facilitate performance based navigation.
- Installed a new Baggage Handling System (BHS) with a capacity to handle 1200-1800 bags per hour compared to the old, which could only handle 500-700 bags.
- And in less than three years time, a modern cargo centre with capacity to handle 100,000 tonnes will be ready. Works for the project are currently ongoing and being undertaken by China Construction Communications Company (CCCC). Once the new cargo centre is in place, the current cargo facility will be razed down to pave way for construction of a new passenger terminal.
Meanwhile Minister for Works and Transport Eng. Monica Ntege who was Chief Guest at the Silver Jubilee Dinner appealed to all the contractors to observe the highest quality standards as they undertake the upgrade and expansion of Entebbe International Airport.
Eng. Monica Ntege also called on local and external investors to invest in Uganda’s travel and tourism industries adding that the returns on investment are high.
At the same occasion CAA also recognized outstanding individuals and companies who have stood with them amidst all challenges.
Former CAA Managing Director Ambrose Akandonda scooped the life time achievers award. Kenya Airways scooped best Travel Airline Award while Eagle Air walked away with the best consistent local Airline. Rose bud scooped the best exporter award while Nile Safaris Tour and Travel explorers walked away with the best tour and Travel Company.
