The Tumultuous Tenure of Jenifer Bamuturaki

Uganda Airlines, relaunched in 2019 with ambitious goals of connecting the nation to key global hubs, has instead become synonymous with financial woes. Under the leadership of Jenifer Bamuturaki, appointed CEO in 2021, the airline accumulated staggering losses: Shs324.9 billion in the 2022/23 fiscal year and Shs237.8 billion in 2023/24, as revealed by parliamentary investigations. These losses were compounded by frequent flight delays, grounded aircraft – including an Airbus A330 stranded in Lagos and another in London – and widespread passenger disruptions, sparking public anger and even requiring police intervention at Entebbe International Airport.

Bamuturaki faced serious allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and embezzlement, prompting investigations by both the Uganda Police’s Criminal Investigations Directorate and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit. A pivotal meeting at State House in September 2025, chaired by President Yoweri Museveni, proved decisive. Bamuturaki’s defenses crumbled under scrutiny, leading to her immediate removal from the session. By February 2, 2026, the board formally resolved to re-advertise the CEO position, a decision made with President Museveni’s explicit approval.

Mwenda’s Rise as a Key Influencer

Andrew Mwenda, a prominent journalist and political commentator known for his outspoken views, initially offered support to Bamuturaki. However, as the airline’s situation deteriorated, he became a vocal critic. In a scathing analysis published on January 27, 2026, Mwenda described Uganda Airlines as a “mess,” highlighting the accumulation of $100 million in unremitted fees to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) – a debt that risked sanctions from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and potential grounding of the fleet. He further criticized the unsustainable scheduling practices, the cannibalization of aircraft parts despite substantial annual government subsidies of Shs120 billion, and what he characterized as Bamuturaki’s “deceptive communication” which alienated both staff and passengers.

Mwenda attributed the airline’s struggles not only to Bamuturaki’s leadership but also to a weak board, an inactive Parliament, and an indecisive Transport Ministry. His relentless critiques, amplified through his social media presence and media appearances, created mounting pressure for change, positioning him as a central figure in the unfolding drama. What role does a journalist play when they become so deeply involved in the affairs of state-owned enterprises?

The Brokering of Girma Wake’s Involvement

Leveraging his close relationship with President Museveni – often described as an informal advisor – Mwenda advocated for the intervention of an experienced aviation expert. In the days leading up to the February 4th announcement, Mwenda subtly signaled his preference for Girma Wake, praising Ethiopian Airlines’ success under Wake’s leadership in a post on X. He highlighted Wake’s track record of transforming Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s largest carrier through rapid fleet expansion and consistent profitability. Wake, born in 1943, served as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines from 2004 to 2011 and later chaired its board from 2022 to 2023.

Mwenda facilitated a meeting between President Museveni and Girma Wake on February 4th, accompanied by his grandson, Robert Katera. In a post announcing the meeting, Mwenda stated: “Finally President @KagutaMuseveni met Girma Wake… Wake will help us manage the transition from the current corrupt and incompetent management to a new one.” He emphasized the need for a “new administrative approach,” echoing calls from allies like Captain Mike Mukula for potential privatization or strategic partnerships. Public reaction has been mixed, with optimism about Wake’s expertise tempered by skepticism regarding Mwenda’s unofficial role and concerns about potential nepotism due to Katera’s involvement.

This intervention underscores Mwenda’s significant influence in Ugandan affairs, blurring the lines between journalism and political maneuvering. While Girma Wake’s precise role – whether as interim CEO or advisor – remains to be fully defined, his involvement promises to bring much-needed expertise to address the airline’s mounting losses and restore its credibility. However, will expertise alone be enough to salvage Uganda Airlines, or are more fundamental structural reforms required?

As Mwenda urged, “The time for quarrels… should end. Now is time for concrete solutions.” Whether this brokered shift will deliver lasting results remains to be seen, but it undeniably highlights the power of personal networks in driving national change in Uganda.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Uganda Airlines Leadership Change

• What is Andrew Mwenda’s role in the Uganda Airlines leadership change?

  Andrew Mwenda acted as a key broker, leveraging his relationship with President Museveni to facilitate the involvement of Girma Wake and advocate for a change in leadership at Uganda Airlines.

• Who is Girma Wake and why is his involvement significant?

  Girma Wake is a highly respected aviation expert and the former CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, credited with transforming the carrier into Africa’s largest airline. His expertise is seen as crucial for addressing Uganda Airlines’ financial and operational challenges.

• What were the primary issues facing Uganda Airlines under Jenifer Bamuturaki’s leadership?

  Uganda Airlines faced significant financial losses, frequent flight delays, grounded aircraft, passenger disruptions, and allegations of corruption and mismanagement under Jenifer Bamuturaki’s tenure.

• What is the current status of Jenifer Bamuturaki’s position at Uganda Airlines?

  Jenifer Bamuturaki has been removed as CEO of Uganda Airlines, and the board is currently re-advertising the position.

• What are the potential future strategies for Uganda Airlines?

  Potential strategies include restructuring the airline’s management, seeking strategic partnerships, or even considering privatization, as suggested by some stakeholders.