Uganda Airlines has named Captain Rita Nasirumbi its first female captain, marking a milestone for the national carrier and women in commercial aviation.

Nasirumbi joined Uganda National Airlines Company in April 2019 as one of its pioneering female cockpit crew members, initially serving as a First Officer on the Mitsubishi CRJ900 aircraft.

She will now command the regional jet, according to Uganda Airlines, which celebrated her achievement on its official social media pages.

“Today, we celebrated Captain Rita Nasirumbi, who made history as Uganda’s and Uganda Airlines’ first female captain.

A proud moment for the Airline and an inspiring reminder of what women can achieve!” the airline said.

Uganda Airlines also congratulated Nasirumbi, expressing hope that her achievement would encourage more women to pursue careers in aviation.

“Congratulations, Captain Rita. May your journey continue to inspire many more women to take the skies,” the airline added.

Becoming an airline captain is a major career milestone that typically requires extensive flight experience, technical expertise and rigorous assessments. Captains are responsible for commanding aircraft, making critical operational decisions and overseeing flight safety.

Nasirumbi’s appointment highlights the opportunities available to women seeking to advance into leadership positions in an industry historically dominated by men.

Her achievement also offers a point of inspiration for aspiring female pilots in Uganda and across Africa, where greater representation of women in commercial aviation remains an important industry goal.

Uganda Airlines resumed operations in August 2019 after nearly two decades out of service. Nasirumbi joined the carrier during the rebuilding phase, making her progression from First Officer to captain part of the airline’s modern history.