MPs Scrutinize UCAA's Shs 5 Billion Fire Truck and Shs 2.3 Billion Transformer Purchase

Lawmakers on the parliamentary committee for Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (Cosase) have raised serious questions regarding the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s (UCAA) acquisition of a specialized fire-fighting vehicle. The vehicle, identified as a Lion 6X6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit manufactured in Turkey, reportedly cost Shs 5.3985 billion.

During an inspection at Entebbe International Airport, the committee members noted that UCAA had not adequately provided documentation to prove ownership and detail the procurement process for the fire truck. While UCAA later presented registration documents listing the vehicle as owned by the authority, concerns about the cost persisted.

UCAA Director General Fred Bamwesigye defended the purchase, emphasizing that the vehicle is not a standard fire truck but highly specialized equipment crucial for aircraft emergency response. Officials highlighted its 12,500-liter water tank, foam capabilities, and tools for accessing damaged aircraft and facilitating passenger evacuations, including a generator for cutting through wreckage.

Despite UCAA’s claims that the price was competitive due to negotiations, the committee remained unsatisfied. They requested documentary evidence detailing how the final price was determined and instructed researchers to ascertain the market value of similar vehicles. Furthermore, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) has been tasked with verifying the vehicle’s registration documents and ownership.

In addition to the fire truck, the committee also scrutinized a transformer reportedly bought for Shs 2.3 billion from Vietnam, which had not been delivered at the time of inspection. UCAA has been ordered to submit comprehensive procurement files for both items.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)