The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces-Air Force (UPDF-AF) has taken a decisive step toward logistical self-reliance by opening its first dedicated fuel station at Air Force Headquarters in Entebbe.
Lieutenant-General Charles Okidi, the Air Force commander, commissioned the facility on Monday, calling it “a remarkable milestone that will cut costs and guarantee fuel availability for every sortie.”
Fuel where the jets are
Until now, Air Force vehicles and support equipment refueled at civilian depots—an arrangement senior officers say was expensive and hurt the force’s image. “This station ends that reliance,” said Brigadier-General David Gonyi, Chief of Staff-Air Force. “We will save money, time and demonstrate the professionalism Ugandans expect.”
The site includes underground tanks, digital pumps and space for a planned aircraft-servicing rig. Lt Gen Okidi urged engineers to fast-track the rig to curb what he termed “unnecessary outsourcing.”
Part of a wider directive
The project follows a presidential order directing all UPDF formations to build internal fuel depots. Colonel Justus Nsereko, Director of Engineering, said 12 stations have already been completed nationwide, with more under construction. Each outlet undergoes National Petroleum Authority inspection before use.
Senior brass present
Chief of Joint Staff Major-General Jack Bakasumba led a delegation of commanders who toured the installation before launching operations.
“Reliable fuel is as important as the aircraft themselves,” Maj Gen Bakasumba told engineers, warning that any lapses in quality control would not be tolerated.
With the Entebbe station now online, UPDF-AF planners say they can redirect savings toward pilot training and maintenance—key pillars in Uganda’s push to modernise its air capabilities.
