Uganda is hosting the 20th Supervisory Board Meeting of the North Eastern Africa and Indian Ocean States Satellite Network (NAFISAT), bringing together aviation experts, policymakers, and representatives from across the region to review progress and plan the future of air navigation services.
Speaking at the official opening of the meeting at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Mr. Fred Bamwesigye reiterated the country’s strong commitment to regional collaboration in aviation.
“We are privileged to host this important gathering of aviation professionals and leaders from across the region, united by our shared commitment to strengthening air navigation services and regional connectivity,” Bamwesigye said.
He acknowledged the crucial role of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Eastern and Southern African Office (ESAF), Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in sustaining the NAFISAT network, praising their leadership and technical support over the years.
Established following a resolution of the APIRG/13 meeting in 2001 and becoming operational in 2007, the NAFISAT network was created to address communication gaps within the North-Eastern part of the AFI Region by delivering reliable, satellite-based aeronautical communication services.
The network, currently managed by ATNS and IATA, has become a vital communication backbone for regional air traffic management. Member states include Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Yemen.
Bamwesigye highlighted Uganda’s active role in the network, noting that Entebbe International Airport hosts the NAFISAT Maintenance and Management Centre (MMC), which ensures operational integrity and technical coordination.
“Our longstanding partnership with ATNS is built on trust, professionalism, and a shared vision. Through this collaboration, we have improved our communication, navigation, and surveillance infrastructure in alignment with ICAO performance objectives,” he said.
He described the NAFISAT initiative as a “true success story,” demonstrating what African states can achieve through unity and cooperation.
The Director General encouraged delegates to use the meeting to assess progress, explore modernization strategies, and reaffirm their commitment to the network’s sustainability beyond its current operational cycle.
“Uganda remains fully committed to working closely with ICAO, ATNS, and all Member States to enhance interoperability, strengthen regional cooperation, and uphold safety and efficiency in aviation,” he noted.
