In response to recent social media reports about the arrival of Uganda’s presidential jet in the United States, State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Ateenyi has clarified that the aircraft is in Savannah, Georgia, for routine maintenance, dismissing claims of mystery or controversy.
US-based Ugandan journalist Remmy Bahati had earlier highlighted that the Gulfstream G550 jet, registered as 5X-UGF and typically used for presidential and VIP travel, had been grounded in Savannah for over 23 hours with no official explanation, prompting online speculation about potential health issues concerning First Lady Janet Museveni or other sensitive state matters.
In a public statement addressing the report, Minister Ateenyi explained that the jet’s presence in Savannah is standard procedure.
“The manufacturer of Gulfstream business jets is Gulfstream Aerospace, with its main factory and headquarters located in Savannah, Georgia,” he said. “This is the primary production facility where most Gulfstream jets, including the G500, G600, and G700, are designed, assembled, and completed.
The jet is currently undergoing a routine maintenance check at this facility.”
He further urged media practitioners and social media users to avoid speculation, referring to circulating rumors as misinformation.
“Let’s avoid spreading Lumbuye’s misinformation,” Ateenyi said, calling for attention to productivity and promotion of Uganda’s local produce rather than unfounded claims about state affairs.
Experts note that presidential jets, like the Gulfstream G550, are sophisticated aircraft requiring regular maintenance at specialized centers, including the manufacturer’s headquarters.
Long-distance trips to service centers abroad are standard practice for many governments to ensure the aircraft remain safe and fully operational.
The clarification comes amid heightened public curiosity and online debate surrounding the jet’s U.S. stopover.
While initial reports raised questions about timing and purpose, the statement by Minister Ateenyi emphasizes routine operational needs over political or personal speculation.
With the maintenance expected to conclude in due course, observers say the jet will return to Uganda, continuing its role in transporting the president and other officials for state business without further cause for concern.