The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering the next generation of aviation professionals.
Speaking during the second edition of the Girls in Aviation Day at UCAA headquarters in Entebbe organised in partnership with AirServ and African Leaders in Aviation, Olive Birungi Lumonya, the Deputy Director General of UCAA, described the occasion as more than a celebration—it is becoming a meaningful tradition in Uganda’s aviation calendar.
She emphasized the UCAA’s dedication to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Programme, which focuses on attracting, training, and retaining young talent, especially women, in the aviation sector.
“We are intentional about supporting this programme and creating platforms that encourage you—and many other young people—to pursue your dreams in aviation,” Lumonya told the gathering of aspiring aviators.
“Events such as this are vital because they bring together young girls from across the country who are interested in aviation careers and serve as a source of inspiration.”
Highlighting the diversity of career paths within aviation, Lumonya noted that opportunities are not limited to piloting aircraft but extend to flight operations, ground handling, airport management, engineering, drone technology, rescue and firefighting, and wildlife management, among others.
She urged participants to ask questions, stay curious, and explore the many possibilities available in the fast-evolving aviation industry.
The Deputy Director General proudly revealed that 32% of UCAA’s workforce is currently female, a figure the Authority is determined to grow through continued mentorship and inclusion efforts.
“Aviation thrives on determination and resilience—qualities you already possess. Though challenges may come, especially in fields where women are still underrepresented, they also bring great opportunities,” she said.
Lumonya encouraged the girls to tap into mentorship programs, pursue STEM education, and seek scholarships and professional networks to help them break barriers in the aviation space.
The event, now in its second year, continues to serve as a springboard for young Ugandan girls to envision themselves as part of the aviation industry’s future, with support from both public and private sector stakeholders.