Photo: Minister Balaam Ateenyi
Government has appointed experienced aviation executive Girma Wake as the new Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Airlines, a decision officials say is aimed at strengthening the national carrier’s leadership and long-term performance.
The appointment was highlighted by State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Ateenyi, who disclosed that President Yoweri Museveni selected Wake, an Ethiopian national, to steer the airline at a critical stage of its growth.
Ateenyi said he recently met and interacted with the new CEO, describing him as a highly accomplished professional with deep knowledge of the aviation industry.
Wake previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines from 2004 to 2011. During that period, he played a key role in restructuring and expanding the airline, helping to turn it into Africa’s most successful carrier with a strong global footprint.
His tenure is often credited with laying the groundwork for Ethiopian Airlines’ dominance in fleet growth, route expansion, and international partnerships.
According to Ateenyi, Wake’s appointment reflects Uganda’s intention to place technical expertise and proven leadership at the centre of Uganda Airlines’ transformation.
He said the government is keen on ensuring the national carrier becomes commercially viable, efficiently managed, and competitive within the region and beyond.
The minister also acknowledged the role of Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba in recommending Wake for the position, noting that the choice was guided by the need to attract “one of Africa’s finest aviation minds” to lead the airline.
Uganda Airlines was revived in 2019 after a long absence from the skies but has since faced challenges linked to operational costs, route sustainability, and profitability.
Aviation observers have repeatedly pointed to management capacity as a key factor in determining the airline’s future.
Wake’s arrival comes as Uganda positions itself as a regional aviation and transport hub, with Entebbe International Airport expected to play a central role.
His leadership will be closely watched as Uganda Airlines seeks to consolidate its operations and expand strategically.