By Juma Nsubuga
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority has engaged Buwaya Community on Wildlife Hazard Management for enhanced Aviation safety.
The sensitization meeting with the Buwaya fishing community at held at St. Luke Church, Ssazi – Lulongo.
The engagement is a crucial part of UCAA’s ongoing efforts to bolster aviation safety around Entebbe International Airport.
Speaking on behalf of the Director Airports & Aviation Security, UCAA Principal Public Affairs Officer, Kenneth Otim, emphasized that aviation safety extends beyond airport boundaries and into surrounding communities.
Otim highlighted the critical role of responsible waste management and farming practices within a 13-Kilometre radius of the airport, noting that such activities can inadvertently attract birds into aircraft flight paths.
Meanwhile Ms. Gloria Bitebekezi revealed that UCAA’s robust four-pronged approach to wildlife hazard management:
Community engagement: Fostering collaboration and awareness among local residents.
Habitat management: Modifying environments to deter wildlife presence.
Grass height control: Maintaining optimal grass levels to discourage birds.
Waste management: Implementing effective waste disposal systems to reduce attractants.
Bitebekezi further elaborated on Uganda CAA’s adoption of modern, science-based methods, including routine runway inspections, the use of bird distress calls, and laser repellents.
“These efforts are continuously supported by ongoing ecological research conducted in partnership with Nature Uganda” she said
The sensitization brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including local leaders, fishermen, health and sanitation officials, and UCAA technical teams.
All participants collectively pledged to strengthen community awareness, improve hygiene practices, and support ongoing monitoring efforts.
The initiative underscores UCAA’s unwavering commitment to mitigating wildlife hazards, particularly bird strikes, which pose significant risks to aircraft operations, passenger safety, and incur substantial airline costs.
