NAGRC&DB Collaborates with UCAA to Address Bird Strike Hazards at Entebbe International Airport
Entebbe International Airport, managed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), has been grappling with a significant issue—frequent bird strikes on aircraft. These incidents not only cause flight delays and equipment damage but also pose serious risks to aircrew safety. The financial burden associated with repairing damaged planes due to bird collisions further compounds the challenge for UCAA.
To find a sustainable solution, UCAA has partnered with the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB). NAGRC&DB will apply its expertise in wildlife identification to analyze bird species involved in these strikes. Using advanced techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and sequencing, the Centre will help identify bird species responsible for the incidents. This critical information will enable UCAA to implement preventive measures and enhance safety protocols, reducing the frequency of bird strikes and ensuring safer skies.
As part of this collaboration, NAGRC&DB will also assist UCAA by training its staff in collecting and handling wildlife samples. The training, which commenced on 10th September 2024, will equip the UCAA team with the skills necessary to gather high-quality samples for accurate laboratory analysis. This effort will support ongoing efforts to manage bird populations and other wildlife in and around the airport to minimize the risk of future collisions.
NAGRC&DB, a statutory body under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), was established under the Animal Breeding Act of 2001. Its primary role is to spearhead animal breeding activities in Uganda, ensuring the genetic improvement and productivity of livestock. The Centre was formed in response to the National Animal Breeding Policy (1997), which provided a framework for all stakeholders in the animal breeding and production sectors.
Through this collaboration with UCAA, NAGRC&DB continues to expand its mandate by playing a vital role in wildlife conservation and enabling UCAA promote aviation safety. This initiative marks a significant step towards mitigating the risks posed by bird strikes, improving both air travel safety and wildlife management at Entebbe International Airport.