Uganda Successfully Hosts 15th IFATSEA Africa Regional Meeting
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), in partnership with the Uganda Air Transport Safety Engineering Association (UGATSEA), successfully hosted the 15th International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Associations (IFATSEA) Africa Regional Meeting from June 17–19, 2025 at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo.
Held under the theme: “Digital Transformation in Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM), Strengthening ATSEP Competencies for a Safer and Sustainable Future,”
the high-level meeting brought together more than 100 delegates and aviation safety engineering professionals from across Africa and beyond.
The three-day event focused on the role of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs) in shaping the future of aviation safety through innovation, collaboration, and technical advancement in the domains of Communication, Navigation, Surveillance (CNS) and Air Traffic Management (ATM).
In his opening remarks delivered on behalf of the Director General, Eng. Ayub Sooma, Director of Airports and Aviation Security at Uganda CAA, highlighted the Authority’s investment in local innovation and engineering talent:
“UCAA takes pride in the innovations of its in-house engineering teams, who have developed indigenous solutions such as the Aeronautical Billing System, the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS), and the customised Balanced Scorecard Strategy Tool, demonstrating Uganda’s growing capability in delivering sustainable aviation technologies.”
He further emphasized Uganda’s alignment with global best practices through adoption of satellite-based navigation systems (PBN), Direct Routing, and Continuous Climb and Descent Operations, all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, reducing emissions, and improving passenger comfort.
Representing the Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Justice Dr. Steven B.K. Kavuma, Chairman of the UCAA Board, underscored the importance of pan-African collaboration.
“Through shared learning and joint initiatives, Africa can position itself not just as a participant in global aviation trends, but as a leader in innovation, safety, and sustainability,” he said.
Day 2 of the meeting focused on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in aviation safety and cyber security. A presentation by Mr. Joseph Katongole, Senior Technical Officer at UCAA, highlighted AI’s potential in transforming aviation systems:
“From predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring to automated hazard detection and cyber defence, AI is offering powerful new tools to elevate safety protocols and operational efficiency across the aviation ecosystem.” he said.
The session was complemented by a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Ms. Angela Kabali from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, which examined the balance between innovation and regulatory responsibility in the use of AI for CNS/ATM systems.
Later in the day, attention turned to the use of drone technology in flight inspection. Experts, including Mr. Daniel Kazungu from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, explored the benefits of drones as a cost-effective, precise, and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional inspection aircraft.
The meeting was closed on June 19, 2025 by the Director General of Uganda CAA, Mr. Fred K. Bamwesigye who commended delegates for their engagement and reaffirmed UCAA’s commitment to aviation innovation and professional development.
“We have explored vital themes around digital transformation in CNS/ATM and the need to strengthen ATSEP competencies for a safer and sustainable future. The discussions have been rich, the technical sessions enlightening, and the shared experiences truly inspiring,” he said.
He expressed Uganda CAA’s full support for the proposed regional consideration for collaboration on the use of drones for flight calibration, calling it “a promising innovation that can greatly enhance efficiency and reduce costs in air navigation services.”
The Director General also extended heartfelt congratulations to Eng. Frank Kofi, who was recognized as the first African President of IFATSEA, calling it “a proud moment for the continent.”
The 15th IFATSEA Africa Regional Meeting concluded with a renewed spirit of collaboration and commitment to innovation across Africa’s aviation sector. Delegates from over 12 countries, including Angola, Ghana, Cameroon, Nigeria, Gambia, Niger, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, DRC, Kenya, and Tanzania, participated actively in technical sessions, panel discussions, and networking opportunities.
Uganda CAA extends its appreciation to all sponsors; ATNS, ACAMS, SITTI, and JOTRON, as well as the organizing committees, stakeholders, and delegates whose contributions made this event a resounding success.
“Let us keep the momentum going. Together, we can shape the future of aviation in Africa,” the Director General concluded.
