UCAA Boosts Search,Rescue Awareness in Ntungamo to Enhance Flight Safety
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has launched a Search and Rescue – Aeronautical Sensitization Campaign in Ntungamo, a district that lies along major international flight routes.
The initiative aims to raise awareness and strengthen collaboration among local leaders, civil servants, and emergency responders to effectively handle aircraft emergencies.
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Speaking during a workshop at Ankole Resort and Spa in Ntungamo Municipality on Tuesday, David Mwitabangoma, the Principal Air Traffic Management Officer – Search and Rescue at UCAA, emphasized the importance of community involvement in aviation safety.
“Ntungamo is one of the districts where many international flights pass through to destinations like Brazil and South Africa. This makes it crucial for us to enhance awareness and preparedness to prevent and control aircraft accidents,” Mwitabangoma explained.
The engagement brought together key stakeholders, including the Uganda Red Cross, political leaders, media representatives, and civil servants.
Ntungamo Resident District Commissioner Isaiah Kanyamahane commended UCAA’s efforts in strengthening aviation safety and community preparedness.
“This initiative will enhance collaboration between authorities and the community, ensuring that in case of an incident, residents know how to respond appropriately. I encourage everyone to report emergencies through the rightful channels to prevent escalation,” Kanyamahane stated.
Local leaders also called for increased investment in aviation infrastructure within the district. Sebastian Bitariho, the Chairperson for Rweikiniro Sub County, pledged to extend sensitization efforts at the grassroots level.
“We will ensure that our communities are well-informed about aircraft emergency procedures. Additionally, we appeal to the government to construct an airfield in Ntungamo to not only enhance emergency response but also showcase our district’s beautiful scenery,” Bitariho said.
Alexander Black Babimpa, a senior air traffic controller at Gulu Airport, stressed the need for aerodrome emergency planning to be incorporated into local government budgets.
“Planning for aviation emergencies should not be an afterthought. Local governments must integrate aerodrome emergency planning into their budgeting processes to ensure a structured response in case of incidents,” Babimpa urged.
The campaign highlights UCAA’s commitment to improving aviation safety in Uganda and ensuring communities play an active role in mitigating air travel emergencies. With greater awareness and coordination, Ntungamo is set to become a model district for aviation emergency preparedness.
