Uganda Hosts the 48th East African Consultative Meeting on Facilitation of Air Transport (EAC-FAL)
Uganda successfully hosted the 48th East African Consultative Meeting on Facilitation of Air Transport (EAC-FAL) from 26th to 28th November 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo, bringing together regional and international aviation stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and harmonize facilitation standards across the East African Community (EAC).
The event was convened by the Ministry of Works and Transport in partnership with the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) and attracted delegates from all EAC Partner States, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA), the African Union Commission, and several partner institutions committed to improving air transport across the region.
The meeting was officially opened by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, who underscored Uganda’s strong commitment to advancing regional collaboration in aviation. He highlighted the country’s increasing role in East Africa’s air transport landscape, noting that Entebbe International Airport recorded over 243,000 international passengers in August 2025, one of the highest monthly passenger totals to date. He also pointed to Uganda Airlines’ expanded network of 17 destinations as evidence of Uganda’s growing connectivity and aviation potential.
Gen. Katumba emphasized the importance of consistent, efficient, and passenger-friendly facilitation processes across the region to support trade, tourism, and economic integration.
Speaking on behalf of the UCAA Director General, the Deputy Director General, Ms. Olive Birungi Lumonya, highlighted the need for harmonized facilitation standards in accordance with ICAO Annex 9 – Facilitation. She noted that seamless movement of passengers, cargo, and aircraft across borders depends on the effective alignment of immigration, customs, health, and security procedures across all Partner States.
Ms. Lumonya also commended the delegates for their inspection of Entebbe International Airport earlier in the week, acknowledging that such interactions provide valuable insights that inform continuous improvement efforts.
Throughout the three-day meeting, delegates discussed a wide range of strategic issues essential to strengthening facilitation within the region. These included:
- Advancing the implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs)
- Enhancing regional cooperation in air transport facilitation
- Improving efficiencies in aircraft, passenger, and cargo processing
- Supporting tourism, trade, and regional connectivity
- Addressing emerging challenges in border control and passenger handling
The consultative meeting also served as a platform for Partner States to share experiences, identify common challenges, and adopt collaborative approaches that enhance the region’s competitiveness within the global aviation system.
Strengthening Uganda’s Aviation Infrastructure
Uganda continues to make significant investments in modernizing and expanding its aviation infrastructure. Key ongoing projects include:
- Expansion of the passenger terminal building at Entebbe International Airport
- Rehabilitation of runways, taxiways, and apron areas
- Construction of Hoima International Airport to support future passenger and cargo growth
These developments align with regional and global efforts to promote safe, efficient, and sustainable air transport.
Hosting the 48th EAC-FAL meeting reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to playing a leading role in regional aviation development and to fostering collaboration among EAC Partner States. The discussions and resolutions from the meeting are expected to significantly contribute to improved facilitation, enhanced connectivity, and stronger integration across East Africa.
Uganda extends its appreciation to all delegates for their meaningful contributions and looks forward to continued partnerships that promote safe and efficient skies across the region.