By Sadique Bamwita
ENTEBBE
The Director General Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Fred Bamwesigye, has revealed that businesses at Entebbe International Airport have reduced to 42.4 % following the closure of airspace in the Middle East.
Bamwesigye said the drop is as a result of reduced number of Muslims who not only go to mecca for pilgrimage but also for business purposes in the Middle East countries. He made the remarks on March 8, 2026 while addressing Muslims who had gathered for Iftar Dinner at Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Headquarters in Entebbe.
Bamwesigye said Muslims are stakeholders in aviation and that because Middle East is disrupted with the ongoing Israel -USA war on Iran, Entebbe International Airport has had 65% of it’s businesses disrupted.
“Increased population of passengers come during the holy month of Ramadhan. Therefore, it’s important for us to pray to God to continue protecting us,” Bamwesigye appealed to Muslims.
Bamwesigye said though the impact of disruptions is huge revealing that a few airlines like Air Arabia, Fly Dubai and FlyNas, have resumed their operations to Sharja, Dubai and Riyad respectively. He, however revealed that Qatar airways and Emirates remain in Doha and Dubai respectively. While Uganda Airlines is yet to resume flights.
“The good news today is that Ethiopian Airlines and FlyNas will take Muslims to Medina for pilgrimage,” Bamwesigye revealed.
Bamwesigye assured Muslim faithfuls that Iftar Dinner remains a key highlight on UCAA’s annual calendar and will continue to grow in significance and participation.
The Director Human Resources and Administration at Uganda Civil Aviation Authority-Ahmed Saba, reminded Muslims that Ramadhan is a period to renew faith, seek forgiveness and strengthen unity through fasting, prayers and offering charity. On this note, she appealed to Muslims to use the holy month of Ramadhan to overcome their differences in the community.
“The holy month of Ramadhan serves as a school of character, it’s a month of spiritual rejuvenation and a month of unity and brotherhood. In this month, we emphasize overcoming our differences and strengthen our bonds in our community,” Saba reminded muslims.
The first Deputy Muft His Eminence Sheikh Mohammed Ali Waiswa, commended management of Uganda Civil Aviation Authority for according Muslims annual Iftar Dinner emphasizing that fasting is a ritual that cuts across all religions. He, however appealed to Muslims to pray for their fellow Muslims currently affected by the ongoing attacks on Iran.
“Our bodies get healthier during fasting. Fasting is not a punishment but a period of reference, “Sheikh Waiswa underscored the relevance of fasting Ramadan.
