COSASE Demands Business Case and Financial Clarity from Uganda Airlines

Members of the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) have put Uganda Airlines’ leadership on the spot regarding the national carrier’s future trajectory. Chairperson Muwada Nkunyingi has specifically requested current CEO Girma Wake to present comprehensive feasibility studies for all recently acquired and proposed routes. These studies should detail the commercial viability, projected returns, and the financing arrangements for each new destination.

The committee is also seeking a thorough update on the airline’s aircraft acquisition program. MPs are concerned about the status and condition of the existing fleet, particularly the older aircraft, and require a report on their airworthiness and maintenance costs. The legislators questioned the ongoing reliance on government funding, urging management to demonstrate a clear path toward profitability.

“Ugandans need to know whether the national carrier is flying towards profit or towards losses. For how long will government continue to pump money into Uganda Airlines without a clear path to financial sustainability?” Nkunyingi pressed. Concerns were also raised about the economic viability of maintaining older planes.

Former CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki also appeared before the committee to address queries from her tenure. Uganda Airlines management has pledged to provide COSASE with all requested documentation, including route feasibility studies, financial projections, and a detailed report on the fleet’s status. The committee plans to continue its oversight proceedings with the airline’s management.