Uganda Airlines CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki Removed Amid Mounting Losses and Governance Concerns

Uganda Airlines CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki has been removed from her post following growing concerns over financial performance, operational inefficiencies, and governance lapses. The leadership change comes at a time when the airline is under scrutiny for persistent revenue leakages and audit red flags.

Financial Strain and Revenue Challenges

During Bamuturaki’s tenure since 2022, Uganda Airlines pursued ambitious regional and international expansion, including the launch of the London route. However, the airline reported losses of about $62 million (Shs230 billion) in the 2024/25 financial year, adding to cumulative deficits exceeding Shs1 trillion since the 2019 relaunch.

Auditors highlighted revenue leakages and unbanked funds, including continued passenger service fees collected months after the levy was officially scrapped. Ticketing operations also raised concerns, with agencies linked to airline staff controlling a significant share of discounted ticket classes, potentially suppressing revenue and creating conflict-of-interest risks.

Governance and Operational Oversight

Internal reviews and a State House meeting in September 2025 reportedly marked the turning point. President Museveni expressed frustration over repeated management lapses and weak internal controls, including disputed procurement decisions and lack of oversight on aircraft leasing and fuel contracts.

“These were not isolated incidents,” said a government source familiar with the discussions. “By September, there was a clear pattern of mismanagement, missing revenue, and ineffective oversight that eroded confidence in leadership.”

Investigations and Regulatory Pressure

The leadership transition coincides with ongoing investigations by Uganda Police’s Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit. Investigators are reviewing procurement approvals, leasing and fuel contracts, revenue handling, and expenditures linked to new route launches.

Bamuturaki has previously denied any wrongdoing, stating that management decisions were in line with the airline’s business and growth plans.

A Mixed Business Legacy

Bamuturaki leaves behind a mixed record—credited for route expansion and fleet growth, but criticized for financial underperformance, weak governance, and unresolved audit issues.

For Uganda Airlines, the leadership change represents an opportunity to strengthen internal controls, improve financial oversight, and restore investor and public confidence. The Board is expected to advertise the CEO position in the coming weeks.