Uganda Secures ICAO Council Membership, Strengthening Aviation Influence

Montreal, Canada – The Republic of Uganda has achieved a historic milestone in its aviation sector by being elected to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, signaling the country’s rising prominence on the global aviation stage.

The election occurred during the 42nd Session of the ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada, where 192 Member States participated. Uganda received an impressive 155 out of 185 votes, reflecting a strong endorsement of its aviation achievements, international reputation, and commitment to safety and operational excellence. The country will serve on the ICAO Council for the 2025–2028 term.

Leading Uganda’s delegation to the Assembly, Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, expressed gratitude and pride over the achievement. He was accompanied by Ambassador Allan Kajik, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Canada; Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) Director General Fred Bamwesigye; and senior officials from the Ministry and UCAA.

Speaking after the announcement, Gen. Katumba hailed the election as “a vote of confidence in Uganda’s aviation leadership and a testament to our continued commitment to international safety and security standards.”

The ICAO Council, the highest decision-making body of the United Nations’ specialized aviation agency, plays a pivotal role in shaping global aviation policies. It formulates standards and recommended practices covering safety oversight, security protocols, environmental sustainability, and the liberalization of international air transport. Uganda’s election ensures the country now has a direct voice in crafting and implementing regulations that impact civil aviation worldwide.

Boosting Uganda’s Aviation Ambitions

This election comes at a critical time for Uganda’s aviation industry, with Uganda Airlines expanding international routes and establishing itself as a key African carrier. Analysts suggest that Uganda’s position on the ICAO Council will strengthen investor confidence, attract technical and infrastructural partnerships, and facilitate international cooperation in aviation training and air services agreements.

Uganda will serve alongside other elected Member States in responding to emerging global challenges, including cybersecurity threats, climate change, drone regulation, and increasing air traffic demand in developing economies. The 2025–2028 term is expected to be crucial as ICAO continues to address post-pandemic recovery, sustainable aviation targets, and technological disruptions reshaping the global aviation landscape.

Through its Council seat, Uganda is positioned to influence policy decisions that will enhance regional connectivity, support the ongoing expansion of Entebbe International Airport, and help realize the strategic ambitions of Uganda Airlines. Moreover, Uganda’s representation underscores Africa’s growing role in shaping international aviation governance.

Gen. Katumba concluded by reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to upholding the highest standards in civil aviation and leveraging its ICAO Council membership to drive growth, safety, and sustainability in the sector.

Uganda’s election to the ICAO Council not only marks a moment of national pride but also cements the country’s place among the world’s leading voices in civil aviation.