Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), in collaboration with Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation – Eastern and Southern Africa (ICAO-ESAF), has hosted the 20th NAFISAT Supervisory Board Meeting, running from 14th to 17th October 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.
The engagement brought together representatives from 14 NAFISAT States, along with officials from ATNS, IATA, and the ICAO ESAF Office.
In his opening remarks, the UCAA’s Director General, Fred K. Bamwesigye, expressed how pleased Uganda was to host the NAFISAT Maintenance and Management Centre at Entebbe International Airport, describing it as “a hub that ensures operational integrity and technical coordination for the entire region.”
He hailed NAFISAT as a true success story, proof of what African States and institutions can achieve when we work together towards a common goal.
“The NAFISAT initiative remains a true success story — a demonstration of what can be achieved when African States and institutions work together towards a common goal. It continues to provide a reliable communication backbone that supports seamless air traffic management, ensuring safer and more efficient skies across our region,” Bamwesigye said.
In addition, the UCAA’s Director General reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to working closely with ICAO, ATNS, and all Member States to enhance interoperability, strengthen regional cooperation, and uphold the principles of safety and efficiency that underpin our aviation system.
The ICAO’s representative, Harvey Gabriel Lekamisy noted that NAFISAT was designed to support Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network (AFTN), ATS/DS, and ATN services.
“Built on VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) technology, it provides robust communication links in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure while seamlessly integrating with networks like the Southern African Development Community Very Small Aperture Terminal (SADC VSAT) and the African Indian Ocean Satellite Network (AFISNET) to strengthen continental connectivity,” he noted.
Over the next two days, discussions will focus on strengthening interoperability, enhancing infrastructure, and aligning regional systems with ICAO’s Global Air Navigation Plan and Aviation System Block Upgrades (ASBUs).
Bamwesigye further stressed the importance of capacity building, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring that all States, regardless of size or resources, benefit from the progress being made.
The 20th NAFISAT Supervisory Board Meeting marks more than just a review of technical systems. It is a reaffirmation of Africa’s collective vision: building safer, smarter, and more connected skies for the continent and the world.
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