Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) Director General, Fred K. Bamwesigye, has emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in enhancing air transport safety, efficiency, and connectivity.
While officially opening the 20th NAFISAT Supervisory Board Meeting at Speke Resort Munyonyo yesterday, Bamwesigye noted the economic benefits facilitate trade and tourism.
Bamwesigye noted that regional cooperation has ironed out communication gaps, enabling seamless interaction between member states.
“We are sharing this space because of proximity, because of the connectivity in our states, so what we come up here is collaboration with the states to make sure that we are efficient in the provision of our air navigation service system,” he said.
Bamwesigye emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to enhance interoperability, strengthen regional cooperation, and uphold the principles of safety and efficiency that underpin the aviation system.
The four day meeting, which started yesterday is being hosted by UCAA in partnership with Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) and the International Civil Aviation Organization – Eastern and Southern Africa (ICAO-ESAF).
It has brought together representatives from 14 NAFISAT member states, including Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti, Yemen, Egypt, Libya, South Africa, Seychelles, Eritrea all united by geographical proximity and shared air navigation space.
The NAFISAT network, established in 2007 under the auspices of ICAO with coordination by ATNS and International Air Transport Association (IATA), aims to provide reliable, cost-effective, and interoperable satellite-based communication between air traffic control centers across Eastern and Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean region. The network was built using Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) technology, enabling robust communication links in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure.
In his remarks, Havy Gabriel, ICAO Representative in the ESAF region, praised the NAFISAT network as a model of regional integration, enabling safer and more efficient air traffic management across Africa.
“NAFISAT stands as a model of regional integration, enabling surface skies and a more efficient air traffic management across Africa. Its evolution reflects the power of collaboration, innovation, and the shared vision,” he said.
The meeting provides an opportunity for participants to review progress, discuss modernization strategies, and reaffirm their collective commitment to the continuity and sustainability of the NAFISAT network.
Gabriel also emphasized the need for capacity building, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring that all states benefit from collective progress.
“Let us reaffirm our vision for a seamless, secure, and sustainable air navigation environment, one that supports economic growth, regional integration, and the aspirations of our people,” he said, urging the supervisory board to approach deliberations with ambition, clarity, and unity.