The Ugandan national carrier is seeking a new chief executive to lead the airline out of a period defined by heavy financial losses and internal friction.
The move follows a turbulent era that began in July 2022, when President Yoweri Museveni directed the appointment of Jenifer Bamuturaki. The decision famously halted an ongoing global recruitment process that had already cost taxpayers Shs98.1m.
Works Minister Katumba Wamala abandoned the search led by PricewaterhouseCoopers just days before the application deadline, citing the presidential order.
A history of instability
Since its relaunch in 2019, Uganda Airlines has struggled to maintain steady leadership. Previous heads, including Ephraim Bagenda and Cornwell Muleya, served in acting or short-term capacities.
Ms Bamuturaki’s tenure was further complicated by past friction within the company. Before her promotion, she served as marketing director, a role marked by a public rivalry with Mr Muleya.
The fallout from that period proved expensive. Although Mr Muleya was later charged with corruption-related offences, a court ruled his dismissal was procedurally flawed, awarding him Shs500m for wrongful termination.
Financial and operational pressure
Under Ms Bamuturaki, the airline expanded its fleet and launched a flagship route to London. However, financial stability remained elusive.
- Losses peaked at Shs325b in 2023.
- By June 2025, losses had narrowed slightly to Shs230.8b.
- The Auditor General raised concerns over fuel procurement and grounded aircraft.
Investigations by the police and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit also highlighted flaws in financial management and aircraft acquisition.
Looking to the future
The current board has confirmed that Ms Bamuturaki will leave her post when her contract expires in July 2026. Board chairperson Priscilla Mirembe Serukka said the search for a successor had started early to ensure a smooth transition.
In a separate economic development, Bank of Uganda data shows fish export earnings remained stable in the final quarter of 2025. The sector earned more than $39m between October and December, driven by improved regional demand and stricter compliance with international standards.
For Uganda Airlines, the focus now returns to a competitive recruitment process—a step many aviation experts say is vital to ending the cycle of political interference and leadership uncertainty.
