The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) Director General, Fred K. Bamwesigye, has urged aviation regulators to strengthen oversight, adaptability, and collaboration as the industry faces rapid technological changes.
Opening a three-day workshop on regulatory excellence at Protea Hotel in Entebbe on Monday, Bamwesigye said effective regulation is essential for safe, secure, and sustainable air transport.
"The aviation industry is evolving rapidly with innovations such as digitalization, drones, cybersecurity, electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL), and advanced air mobility systems. This calls for effective regulation to safeguard stakeholders while facilitating growth," he said.
The training, organized by Boeing International in partnership with Cranfield University and the East African Community Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (EAC-CASSOA), is being held under the theme "Regulatory Excellence - Leading the Way into the Future."
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Bamwesigye emphasized that regulators must go beyond enforcing rules to also act as enablers of growth and innovation.
"We must ensure safety, fairness, transparency, and accountability while creating an environment where industries can thrive and investments can be attracted," he added.
He highlighted the importance of Safety Management Systems (SMS) in identifying risks, proactive crisis management, and building resilience within the aviation sector.
He also called for continuous cooperation at regional and international levels, given aviation's global nature.
Participants are expected to explore strategies for regulating emerging technologies, managing crises, accident investigations, and building leadership skills to shape the future of African aviation.
"This workshop is highly interactive with real-world case studies, and I urge you all to seize the opportunity to share insights, build networks, and strengthen our regulatory frameworks," Bamwesigye told delegates.
The Executive Director of the East African Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency Eng. Richard Gatete said aviation is rapidly evolving, shaped by emerging technologies such as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance, digital oversight platforms, and green technologies to reduce emissions at airports.
"Regulators must therefore anticipate these changes, providing frameworks that enable innovation while ensuring safety, security and sustainability," Eng.Gatete said.
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"As the region embraces emerging developments such as the pioneering use of drones for medical deliveries, advancements in cybersecurity, and the adoption of green technologies and renewable energy solutions at airports to curb emissions and promote sustainability it is essential to establish the right regulatory frameworks to remain well-positioned and aligned with global aviation trends."
Gatete noted that the training has been designed to combine expert insights, case studies, and interactive exercises, ensuring that participants leave with practical skills, global best practices, and forward-looking strategies.
The workshop runs until September 3, bringing together regulators, industry players, and international experts.
