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Uganda Airlines is preparing for a major leadership transition following the impending departure of its Chief Executive Officer, Jenifer Bamuturaki, as investigations intensify into the management, procurement practices, and financial performance of the state-owned carrier.
Multiple Ugandan media outlets report that Yoweri Museveni has pushed for a reset at the loss-making airline amid probes led by the Criminal Investigations Directorate and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit. Launched in early January, the investigations are examining procurement processes, aircraft acquisition contracts, banking records, and ticketing systems across both regional and long-haul operations.
Initial reports claimed that Bamuturaki had been dismissed. However, sources cited by international aviation outlet eTurboNews later indicated those claims were inaccurate. What is clear, though, is that Bamuturaki has formally informed staff that the board will advertise the CEO position and encourage qualified internal candidates to apply—widely interpreted as confirmation that her exit is imminent.
As of February 3, Uganda Airlines had not issued a standalone public statement confirming either the CEO’s departure or the appointment of a successor.
Against this backdrop, local media reports indicate that State House is considering Girma Wake as a potential external candidate. Girma previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines from 2004 to 2011—a period widely associated with accelerated fleet modernization, network expansion, and tighter operational discipline. He later returned to the group as board chair in 2022 and 2023, reinforcing his standing as one of Africa’s most experienced airline executives.
If confirmed, Girma’s appointment would mark a strategic shift for Uganda Airlines, which has struggled to balance political expectations with commercial viability. While the carrier has expanded its route network in recent years, it continues to post significant losses. Audit commentary cited by local media suggests revenues have improved modestly, but rising costs and mounting payables remain a concern.
According to the Auditor General’s report referenced by Parliament’s Committee on State Authorities, Uganda Airlines recorded a loss of UGX 237.8 billion (USD 66.9 million) in the 2023/24 financial year. Lawmakers flagged concerns over aircraft maintenance expenses, procurement decisions, and alleged overpayments. Management, for its part, attributed the losses to elevated jet fuel prices, depreciation costs, and shortages of critical spare parts.
Compounding the financial strain, repeated flight disruptions, delays, and communication gaps in recent months have drawn public criticism, further pressuring authorities to restore confidence in the airline’s governance and operational reliability.
Whether Uganda Airlines turns to a seasoned external executive such as Girma Wake or opts for internal succession, the coming weeks are likely to prove decisive for the carrier’s future direction—particularly as scrutiny over accountability and performance continues to intensify.
