UCAA boss hails Muslim community’s role in aviation growth

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The Muslim community plays a significant role in increasing passenger traffic at Entebbe International Airport, especially during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimage seasons.

This was revealed by Fred Bamwesigye, the director general of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), during an iftar dinner organised by the aviation regulator on Tuesday, March 25.

Bamwesigye noted that in February alone, 74,417 passengers arrived in Uganda through Entebbe Airport, while 86,618 departed, bringing the total number of transiting passengers to 161,035.

"Many of you are also prominent businessmen and traders who frequently use Entebbe Airport facilities. We thus appreciate your patronage, and the revenue contributed to the country through the use of Entebbe Airport and its facilities," Bamwesigye stated.

He further expressed UCAA’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment that respects and celebrates cultural and religious diversity.

The prayers at the iftar were led by Imam Abdallah Segujja, who focused his sermon on sacrifice and giving. According to Imam Segujja, generosity is a fundamental pillar of faith and serves as an advocate for sinners before Allah.

"It is divine to feed people. Most of the sicknesses we suffer from today stem from selfishness, as many no longer want to sacrifice and share what they have with others. Whenever we do not share, we are automatically cursed," Segujja preached.

Hajji Sowedi Serumaga, chairperson of the Muslim fraternity in Entebbe sub-district, echoed this message, highlighting the significance of Ramadan in fostering discipline, empathy, and communal harmony.

"It is a time to support one another, extend kindness, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and service," Serumaga said.

Justice (Rtd) Steven Kavuma, UCAA board chairperson, noted that Entebbe Airport has long reserved a section for Islamic prayers.

"Even the newly constructed and expanded terminal building has a spacious area set aside for our Muslim brothers and sisters, where they can always conduct prayers. This is not reserved for airport staff only but also for transiting passengers," Kavuma remarked.

The annual iftar gathering has become a tradition on the UCAA calendar since last year. Bamwesigye emphasised that the occasion allows management and staff to share in the blessings of Ramadan while strengthening bonds within the aviation community.

"As professionals in the aviation sector, we embody these values in our work, ensuring they reflect in our interactions, service delivery, and overall commitment to excellence as we continue to grow Uganda’s aviation industry," Bamwesigye said.