President Yoweri Museveni has appointed Ethiopian aviation veteran Girma Wake as Consultant and Acting Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Airlines until July 2026, citing management weaknesses at the national carrier.
In the directive, Museveni said the appointment is part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening leadership and operational efficiency within the airline. He pointed to existing management gaps that require experienced oversight to stabilize and reposition the company.
Current CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki has been instructed to step aside and immediately hand over office as the restructuring process begins.
Girma Wake is widely known in African aviation circles, having previously led Ethiopian Airlines and played a key role in expanding its global network. His appointment signals a push to inject seasoned industry expertise into Uganda Airlines as it navigates financial and operational challenges.
The move marks a significant leadership transition at the carrier, with government indicating that reforms will focus on governance, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

