Uganda Airlines officials are spearheading the cleaning of Lake Victoria’s shoreline in Kigungu, Entebbe city, as one way to reduce bird strikes.
The initiative was part of the airline’s wider flight path sustainability project aimed at mitigating bird strikes at Entebbe International Airport with improved waste management and environmental conservation.
The cleanup event, which was held in collaboration with Kigungu residents and local community leaders, focuses on waste collection and proper disposal, particularly the proper disposal of plastic and fish processing by-products, has long contributed to bird activities in the area.
The accumulation of garbage along the shores of Lake Victoria has historically attracted birds. It poses a serious safety risk to aviation as it strays into the aircraft’s flight path in search of food.
Speaking at the event, Shakirarahimurama, Head of Corporate Affairs and Public Relations at Uganda Airlines, highlighted the importance of the initiative.
“Birds are drawn to waste dumped on the coast, especially from fish cleaning activities. Entebbe, a bird sanctuary, attracts many birds flying from Mabamba Bay, which increases the risk of bird strikes during takeoff and landing. These incidents cause ground aircraft and flight support through ground aircraft and flight possibilities, including ground aircraft and flight cancellations, including ground aircraft and flight cancellations. Reuse and recycling of waste,” Shakira said.
She said the Flightpath Sustainability Project, launched in November 2022, aims to reduce bird concentrations around the airport by 40% while promoting community-driven waste management. Solution.
According to a spokesman for Uganda Airlines, the project offers economic opportunities by turning waste into valuable resources, creating a pathway for residents to make a living through recycling initiatives.
“Uganda Airlines is dedicated to sustainability and environmental management. The airline believes that community and stakeholders will be involved in initiatives such as Kigungu Cleanup will improve hygiene and public health in its neighbourhoods while significantly improving aviation safety.”
Authorities said the cleaning will take place on the last Saturday of each month.
