By Our Detective Crew
Uganda Airlines has once again found itself at the center of public debate after reports circulated last week claiming that over Shs 103 billion in ticket sales had “vanished.” The claims, widely shared across social media and some news outlets, cited a query report by the Auditor General.
However, sources close to the national carrier say the figure was drawn from a preliminary audit query — not a final report — and has since been reconciled. “Every audit raises queries. What matters is the response. In this case, there are stamped receipts and bank reconciliations confirming no funds were lost,” a source familiar with the matter said.
The flagged figure reportedly resulted from the use of multiple revenue collection systems across different countries, which required reconciliation rather than alarm. Analysts say that while it is the Auditor General’s duty to raise queries, reporting them without the corresponding responses risks creating a misleading impression.
A Challenging Leadership Transition
Jennifer Bamuturaki was appointed CEO in April 2021 following the exit of former CEO Cornwell Muleya and the previous management team. Her appointment marked a turning point for the airline but also sparked resistance from groups that had benefited from the old management structure.
Her tenure has seen periodic scrutiny, including a parliamentary inquiry into her qualifications. Bamuturaki has consistently defended her leadership, emphasizing that the airline’s performance is improving.
Beyond public scrutiny, Uganda Airlines has faced commercial pressures. A notable challenge came when MixJet, a fuel supplier, demanded full settlement of outstanding invoices before continuing supply — a move that risked grounding operations.
Management responded by engaging AEG Fuel Company, which ensured uninterrupted service. This quick decision preserved flight schedules and highlighted the airline’s operational resilience.
Signs Of Progress
Despite the turbulence, Uganda Airlines’ key performance indicators have continued to improve under Bamuturaki’s leadership:
- Revenue Growth: From USD 49 million in 2021, the airline’s revenue rose to USD 116 million in the 2024/25 financial year — an 83% year-on-year increase — and USD 166 million by the end of 2024, representing 136% growth since 2021.
- Route Expansion: Six new routes have been added since March 2023, including London, Mumbai, Lagos, Abuja, Harare, and Lusaka, linking Uganda to major business and tourism destinations.
- Operational Stability: Like most young airlines, Uganda Airlines is still in its growth phase and has yet to post profits, but its upward revenue trajectory suggests increasing sustainability.
Aviation analysts caution that while scrutiny is necessary for public accountability, it must be balanced and fair. “The focus should be on strengthening governance systems and ensuring long-term viability, rather than creating panic,” one analyst noted.
For many stakeholders, Uganda Airlines represents more than a business venture — it is a national symbol and an enabler of trade, tourism, and connectivity. Supporters argue that continued growth will require both operational discipline and public confidence.
As Uganda’s flag carrier moves into its next phase of expansion, industry watchers say what it needs most is constructive oversight and policy support to build on the progress of recent years.
