Uganda has been elected to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Council for the 2025–2028 term, marking a significant milestone in the country’s aviation diplomacy.
The announcement came during the 42nd ICAO Assembly, where Uganda secured 155 out of 185 votes in a competitive election under Part III, which ensures geographic representation.
The triennial Assembly, attended by all 193 ICAO Member States and running from September 23 to October 3, serves as the organization’s supreme policy-making body.
Election to the 36-member Council—the ICAO’s permanent governing organ—positions Uganda to play a pivotal role in shaping international aviation standards, safety protocols, and sustainability initiatives.
Leading the Ugandan delegation was Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, accompanied by Ambassador Allan Kajik, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Canada; Fred Bamwesigye, Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA); and senior officials from the Ministry and UCAA.
Their strategic advocacy highlighted Uganda’s investments in infrastructure, safety oversight, and regional connectivity.
The ICAO Council, elected every three years in three categories, is responsible for adopting international standards and recommended practices (SARPs) to ensure the orderly growth of global aviation.
Uganda joins 13 other nations in this category, including Angola, Belize, Cuba, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Malaysia, Mali, Morocco, Poland, Qatar, Republic of Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay.
Africa’s representation remains strong, with eight Member States on the Council: Angola, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Mali, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, and now Uganda—accounting for nearly a quarter of total seats.
This increase reflects the continent’s rising influence in aviation governance, as African air traffic is projected to double by 2040.
Council decisions directly impact airlines, airports, and passengers worldwide, ensuring safer skies and more efficient travel—an area where Uganda is now poised to make a lasting mark.