Uganda Airlines CEO Steps Down Amid Financial, Operational Scrutiny

Uganda Airlines CRJ900
Credit: Rob Finlayson

Uganda Airlines has announced that CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki has stepped down from her role, a move that comes amid growing scrutiny over the airline’s financial management and operational performance.

The resignation is believed to follow pressure from President Yoweri Museveni, as the national carrier has faced under-performance and controversy over disputed aircraft procurement decisions.

Bamuturaki, who took over as CEO in 2022 after serving as acting chief, presided over a period marked by multiple investigations, including a 2024 probe by the Parliamentary Committee on State Authorities (COSASE). These inquiries focused on sustained financial losses and allegations of mismanagement, corruption and abuse of office.

Operational challenges have also drawn public criticism, with passengers reporting missed flights, repeated rescheduling, and limited assistance from airline staff at Entebbe International Airport.

Despite these setbacks, Uganda Airlines has achieved several milestones during Bamuturaki’s tenure. In August 2025, the carrier marked its sixth anniversary, having expanded its fleet and network. This included the launch of flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick in May 2025 using an Airbus A330-800—in what Bamuturaki had said was a “key goal” for the airline since its inception in 2019.

The airline also received government approval to negotiate orders for two A320neos and two A321neos, scheduled for delivery between 2031 and 2033.

Uganda Airlines operates two 258-seat A330-800s and four 76-seat CRJ900s.

As of now, there is no official confirmation on Bamuturaki’s successor as CEO, though speculation is ongoing.

Ella Nethersole

Ella Nethersole is Deputy Editor of Aviation Week Network publications Arabian Aerospace and African Aerospace.