Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation, safety, and efficiency in air navigation as it hosts the 20th Supervisory Board Meeting of the North Eastern Africa and Indian Ocean States Satellite Network (NAFISAT) at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The high-level meeting, presided over by UCAA Director General Fred Bamwesigye, brings together aviation professionals, regulators, and representatives from international organizations to review progress on air navigation systems and explore modernization strategies to strengthen communication and connectivity across Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
Speaking at the official opening, Bamwesigye lauded the meeting as a demonstration of African collaboration and technical excellence in aviation management.
“We are privileged to host this important gathering of aviation professionals and leaders from across the region, united by our shared commitment to strengthening air navigation services and regional connectivity,” he said.
Bamwesigye hailed NAFISAT as a “true success story” of African unity, emphasizing its vital role in advancing regional air traffic management. He acknowledged the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Eastern and Southern African Office (ESAF), Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for their continued support in maintaining the NAFISAT network.
“Our longstanding partnership with ATNS is built on trust, professionalism, and a shared vision. Through this collaboration, we have improved our communication, navigation, and surveillance infrastructure in alignment with ICAO performance objectives,” Bamwesigye added.
Strengthening a Vital Regional Network
The NAFISAT network, established in 2001 and operational since 2007, was created to address communication gaps within the North-Eastern Africa and Indian Ocean region by providing reliable satellite-based aeronautical communication services.
The network is managed by ATNS and IATA, and its membership includes Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Yemen.
Uganda plays a central role in the network as Entebbe International Airport hosts the NAFISAT Maintenance and Management Centre (MMC) — the technical hub responsible for ensuring operational integrity, system monitoring, and network reliability.
Bamwesigye urged all member states to use the meeting to “assess progress, explore modernization strategies, and reaffirm their commitment to the sustainability of the network beyond its current operational cycle.”
He further confirmed that Uganda remains fully committed to working closely with ICAO, ATNS, and other partners to enhance interoperability and ensure continued safety in the skies.
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