Uganda has been selected to host the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) Global Conference in 2027, a landmark event expected to attract more than 600 delegates from 132 countries.
The announcement was made by Minister of Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, and delivered on his behalf by Ms Olive Birungi Lumonya, the Deputy Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), during the 36th IFATCA Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting held from November 3–5, 2025, in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Uganda won the competitive bid during the 2025 IFATCA Global Conference in Abu Dhabi, beating several other contenders.
The 2027 event will place Uganda at the centre of global aviation dialogue, showcasing the country’s progress in air traffic management, aviation safety, and infrastructure development.
Speaking to delegates from across Africa and the Middle East, Ms. Lumonya underscored the enduring importance of human expertise in an increasingly automated aviation environment.
“The theme of this year’s meeting, ‘Policy Leadership for a Safer Sky: Advancing Strategic Human Capital Development in Air Traffic Management,’ reminds us that even in an era of automation and technology, people remain the heartbeat of aviation safety,” she said.
She reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to investing in aviation professionals and infrastructure, noting that the country continues to prioritize training, regional cooperation, and technological innovation.
“In Uganda, we continue to invest in our people through training, in modern air navigation systems, and in regional cooperation. We are enhancing aviation infrastructure, strengthening search and rescue capabilities, and fostering collaboration across our region,” she added.
The upcoming conference marks another milestone in Uganda’s aviation journey, reflecting steady progress under the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.
Major upgrades at Entebbe International Airport—including a new passenger terminal and expanded cargo facilities—have enhanced efficiency, safety, and passenger experience.
These investments have strengthened Uganda’s position as an emerging aviation hub in East Africa.
Hosting the IFATCA Global Conference is expected to boost Uganda’s international visibility while deepening partnerships with global air traffic management bodies.
Gen Katumba Wamala, who also serves as Patron of the Uganda Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (UGATCA), has played a pivotal role in advancing professional standards and aligning the country’s aviation sector with international best practices.
Industry observers say Uganda’s selection reflects confidence in its organizational capacity, aviation reforms, and collaborative spirit within the East African aviation community—where member states increasingly share expertise to enhance safety oversight and regulatory harmonization.
“Uganda’s hosting of the IFATCA Global Conference is not only a win for the country but for the entire region,” one aviation official noted.
“It will shine a spotlight on Africa’s growing role in shaping global aviation policy.”
Founded more than 60 years ago, IFATCA represents over 50,000 air traffic controllers worldwide and serves as the global voice of the profession, promoting safety, professionalism, and international cooperation.
The 2027 Global Conference will bring together regulators, controllers, researchers, and policy experts to discuss innovations in airspace management, human capital development, and the future of aviation safety.
As preparations begin, Uganda’s aviation authorities say the event will serve as a platform to showcase investment opportunities, promote tourism, and highlight national achievements in aviation modernization and training.
“Hosting this global event affirms Uganda’s growing influence in the international aviation community,” Ms. Lumonya said.
“It is an opportunity to show the world our progress, our potential, and our readiness to contribute meaningfully to global aviation safety.”