Leadership Overhaul at Uganda Airlines: CEO Dismissed Amid Financial Turbulence

ByEmmanuel Kintu

KAMPALA – The “Pearl of Africa” national carrier is entering a definitive new chapter. Following a directive from President Museveni, Jenifer Bamuturaki has been removed as CEO of Uganda Airlines, signaling a major leadership reset aimed at stabilizing the carrier’s reputation and financial standing.

The move comes as the airline grapples with staggering figures revealed in the latest Auditor General’s reports and ongoing parliamentary scrutiny:

  • The Deficit: The airline recorded a net loss of UGX 237.8 billion (~$66.5 million) for the 2023/2024 financial year. While this was a slight narrowing from the previous year’s UGX 323.5 billion (~$90.5 million) loss, the persistent shortfall has triggered alarms in Parliament regarding long-term viability.
  • Operational Strain: Beyond the balance sheet, the airline has faced intense criticism over “operational chaos,” including the December 2025 crisis that left dozens of passengers stranded in Dubai for three days due to mechanical failures.
  • Integrity Probe: Investigations are currently active into a suspected “ticket scam” involving an internal syndicate that allegedly resulted in the loss of $253,189 (approx. UGX 905 million).

A New Flight Path?

The Uganda Airlines Board, led by Chairperson Priscilla Mirembe Serukka, has officially opened the search for a new CEO. The Board is reportedly seeking a leader who “exudes competence and ethical values” to restore internal cohesion and public trust. Whispers within aviation circles suggest the government may look toward veteran international talent—with former Ethiopian Airlines leadership being a high-profile name in the mix—to steer the carrier toward profitability.

For the luxury traveler and the industry stakeholder, this transition represents a pivotal moment. A successful “reset” could finally provide the smooth, reliable service that the More Cream Than Coffee audience expects from a national flagship.

Stay tuned to More Cream Than Coffee for further updates on the search for new leadership and its impact on regional travel.

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Emmanuel Kintu is a travel photographer, event and documentary creative director. With 10 years’ experience working as a freelance photojournalist, Emmanuel has covered notable travel and tourism expos, working with government agencies, and several others in the private and public sector. He is an avid mountain hiker, and has hiked all the mountains in East Africa and several mountains in the Alpine.

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