By Spy Uganda
In a landmark move to enhance aviation safety, Uganda has officially launched the National Committee on Wildlife Hazard Management, a specialized body tasked with tackling the growing threat of wildlife—particularly bird strikes—at the country’s aerodromes.
The committee was inaugurated on Wednesday, May 22, 2025, at the Four Points by Sheraton in Kampala, bringing together a cross-sectoral team of experts from aviation, environmental management, academia, security, and various government ministries.
Formed under the Civil Aviation (Aerodromes) Regulations, 2022, the committee will be responsible for analyzing wildlife hazards at airports, conducting research, and assessing the effectiveness of current mitigation strategies. Its establishment marks a significant step forward in Uganda’s efforts to proactively manage aviation risks associated with wildlife.
A Strategic & Collaborative Response
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Works and Transport, Justice Steven Kavuma, Chairperson of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Board, emphasized the urgency of addressing this often-overlooked threat to air travel.
“The increasing frequency of wildlife strikes, particularly bird strikes, poses a serious challenge to aviation safety—not just in Uganda but globally,” said Kavuma. “This committee is both timely and necessary, and reflects the government’s commitment to proactive, science-driven aviation safety management.”
Kavuma noted that the committee’s multi-disciplinary nature would allow for a comprehensive approach, incorporating expertise from aviation professionals, wildlife specialists, environmental scientists, and security personnel.
A Working Body With Real Authority
Fred K. Bamwesigye, Director General of the CAA and Chairperson of the newly formed committee, stressed that the initiative is not symbolic but a fully functional body with a clear mandate, expected to deliver measurable outcomes.
“This Committee is not simply a formality. It is a functional, accountable body that will provide evidence-based solutions to one of the most persistent threats to aviation safety,” Bamwesigye said.
Committee Composition
The committee brings together key stakeholders from across government and the aviation ecosystem, including:
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Ronny Barongo – Director, Safety, Security & Economic Regulation, Uganda CAA
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Joses Tegyeza Kachetero – Ministry of Public Service
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Winnie Nampeera – Ministry of Works and Transport
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Denis Kidega – Ministry of Lands
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Anne Lilian Nakafeero – National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)
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Twesigye Emmanuel – Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
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Mirembe Dan – Uganda Wildlife Authority
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Ainomugisha Collins & Kagina Alex – Uganda People’s Defence Air Forces
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Gloria Kirabo, Andrew Ssempungu, Atto Irene, Bigirwa Emmanuel, Nafuna Suzan – Uganda CAA
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Maria Flavia Nakanjako – Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries
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Perpetra Akite – Makerere University
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Captain Japeth Okabo Okeng – Uganda Airlines
Aviation Safety In Focus
Wildlife strikes—especially those involving birds—are a major concern for aviation authorities worldwide. They pose serious risks to aircraft, passengers, and flight operations, often resulting in costly repairs or even emergency landings. Uganda’s new committee will focus on developing risk maps, enhancing wildlife monitoring systems, and integrating technology and policy to reduce such incidents.
The launch of this committee signals a robust and forward-thinking approach to safety in Uganda’s fast-growing aviation sector—one that prioritizes coordination, research, and action in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
