The appointment of a new chief executive at Uganda Airlines comes at a time of heightened expectations, as Ugandan authorities seek to restore the national carrier’s financial and operational credibility while strengthening its role in regional integration and the country’s international connectivity.

Girma Wake, former chief executive of Ethiopian Airlines, has been appointed consultant and interim CEO of Uganda Airlines, replacing Jenifer Bamuturaki, who resigned last month.

According to local media, a directive from President Yoweri Museveni dated February 13, 2026, and addressed to Transport Minister Katumba Wamala, cited “current weaknesses in the leadership and management of Uganda Airlines” as the reason for the change.

Persistent Losses Since Relaunch

Relaunched in 2019, Uganda Airlines has accumulated losses despite being positioned as a driver of air transport, tourism and trade. In August 2025, management projected losses would rise 14% for the fiscal year under way, after losses had already reached 237 billion Ugandan shillings (about $67.1 million).

Beyond its debt burden, the carrier faces technical problems and fleet constraints, even as demand has grown alongside the expansion of its network. The situation has led to increased flight delays and cancellations. Reports by the auditor general and investigations by state agencies have also raised concerns about procurement practices and staffing structure, local media said.

Wake led Ethiopian Airlines from 2004 to January 2011 and was recalled in April 2022 to chair its board. He is widely credited with overseeing the airline’s transformation into Africa’s largest carrier and a competitor to major international airlines. He also served as chairman of RwandAir’s board.

Henoc Dossa