By Sadique Bamwita
KAMPALA
Africa Region Air safety personnel under their umbrella body International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (IFTSEA), have unanimously agreed to collaborate on the use of drones to inspect navigation aids and airspace procedures.
The Director General Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Fred Bamwesigye, welcomed the resolution saying that rapid changes in technology not only demand Air Traffic controllers to keep pace but also to lead with innovation, adaptability and a renewed commitment.
Addressing the media in Kampala on June 19, 2025, Bamwesigye, said that the use of drones in the aviation industry is very key because every time the world is moving forward.
He added that he is hopeful drones would greatly help to fight cyber security risks in air navigation services.
“Digital innovation is very key in the aviation sector given the speed at which the world moves on in terms of technological advancement and for this matter, we can’t be left behind,’ Mr. Bamwesigye said and called on the African region to continue collaborating and work together in handling air navigation services.
The president of Uganda Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (UGATSEA), Mr. Isaac Kamugo, said as Africa Region, they intend to use drones to conduct air navigation services that guide aircrafts and ensure they are safe within the skies.
“As Africa Region we have resolved to use drones to deal with the emerging technologies such as Artificial intelligence and we highly believe drones will assist in our operations and ensure efficiency in air navigation. The recommendations largely depend on collaboration to chat a way forward, “Mr. Kamugo emphasized.
Mr. Kamugo revealed that the drone facility is inbuilt in the aircraft and may not necessarily have political issues because it largely focuses on technical issues .
“This is already established arrangement. We do have the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) that makes regulations for all countries regardless of political issues. So, we follow the same model and what we do is technical work and no politics in it. As Africa, we have the opportunity to come up with our own technology,” Mr. Kamugo expressed optimism.’
The Africa Region Director for the International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (IFTSEA), Mr. Sam Mahlangu, noted that the move marks another significant milestone in their journey to advance safety, efficiency and sustainability of air navigation services across the African continent.
