By Spy Uganda
Nakasongola: HE. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday commissioned the helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul plant at the Nakasongola Air Force Base.
Museveni says this is an example of vertical integration of the economy promised on his NRM’s 10-point programme.
He adds that this plant will help Uganda to save about 3.5 million US dollars that could have been spent on transportation and overhauling one helicopter outside Uganda.
“You’re talking of saving money. You’re using imported helicopters which you don’t make or even maintain and repair. This is very serious,” Museveni said.
I commissioned the Helicopter Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul plant at the Nakasongola Air Force Base. I commend the Ministry of Defence for the initiative. This is an example of vertical integration of the economy promised in the NRMs 10-Point Programme. pic.twitter.com/Q9ALzYUmzb
— Yoweri K Museveni (@KagutaMuseveni) January 22, 2022
According to the Commander UPDF Airforce Lt. Gen. Charles Lutaaya, aircraft maintenance is generally expensive but with the commissioning of the maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, there will be on time repair of components and reduced wastage to enhance air force combat readiness and employment capabilities.
“Assets will no longer be grounded for long periods due to lack of spares and technical expertise input as this can be now sourced from the maintenance, overhaul and repair expertise,” Lutaaya said.
The Chief of Defense Forces Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi said the facility will bring in more revenue into the economy as aircrafts from the region will be serviced here.
“I want therefore to thank your excellency on behalf of the UPDF for continuously guiding us to help us build a formidable force in the region,” Gen Mbadi said.
