The drive to transform Africa’s aviation industry gained fresh momentum as the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority hosted a high-level continental workshop aimed at strengthening fair competition across the air transport sector. The three-day engagement, taking place at Speke Resort Munyonyo from May 6–8, 2026, has drawn aviation regulators, legal scholars, and regional representatives from across the continent to shape the future of African skies.
Opening the workshop, UCAA Director General Mr. Fred K. Bamwesigye underscored the urgent need for strong and effective competition regulations to accompany the liberalization of Africa’s airspace. He noted that while open skies create enormous opportunities for connectivity and economic growth, they must also be protected by transparent rules that prevent unfair practices and ensure equal opportunities for all airlines.
The workshop is being organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission in collaboration with the McGill Institute of Air and Space Law, with support from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. The initiative forms part of broader continental efforts to operationalize the Single African Air Transport Market under the Yamoussoukro Decision, a landmark framework designed to integrate Africa’s aviation sector and stimulate regional trade and mobility.
Mr. Bamwesigye highlighted Uganda’s growing commitment to building a modern and competitive aviation environment. He pointed to major milestones already achieved, including the enactment of Uganda’s Competition Act in 2024 and the establishment of a dedicated Consumer Protection Unit within the Civil Aviation Authority. He added that the country is also advancing draft competition and consumer protection regulations aligned with Africa-wide standards.
Although Uganda has not yet fully acceded to the Single African Air Transport Market, the Director General emphasized that deliberate preparations are underway. He revealed that consultations with key stakeholders continue, while the country prepares for Cabinet consideration as part of the process toward full participation in the continental aviation framework.
Participants at the workshop are engaging in technical discussions, comparative legal reviews, and practical drafting sessions focused on developing effective regulatory tools for African states. The sessions are designed to strengthen institutional coordination, deepen understanding of competition law in aviation, and promote harmonized enforcement mechanisms across the continent.The gathering also reflects Africa’s growing determination to create a more integrated and sustainable aviation sector capable of competing globally.
By bringing together experts from different regions and institutions, the workshop seeks to build the technical capacity necessary to address market distortions, protect consumers, and encourage healthy competition within the rapidly evolving air transport industry.In closing, Mr. Bamwesigye commended AFCAC and its international partners for investing in Africa’s regulatory future and called upon all SAATM signatory states to accelerate implementation efforts. He stressed that a united and competitive African aviation market will not only strengthen connectivity but also unlock new opportunities for trade, tourism, investment, and continental integration.
