Overview:
At 82, Wake is one of Africa’s most experienced and respected airline executives, with a career spanning more than five decades and closely tied to the rise of Ethiopian Airlines into a continental aviation powerhouse.
When President Yoweri Museveni met veteran Ethiopian aviation executive Girma Wake at State House, Entebbe on February 4, it immediately set off speculation across the aviation and political landscape. While no appointment has been confirmed, Wake has since emerged as the leading favourite to take on a key role at Uganda Airlines as the national carrier searches for new leadership.
At 82, Wake is one of Africa’s most experienced and respected airline executives, with a career spanning more than five decades and closely tied to the rise of Ethiopian Airlines into a continental aviation powerhouse.
From Engineer to Airline Leader
Born in 1943 in Addis Ababa, Girma Wake joined Ethiopian Airlines in 1965 as a young aircraft maintenance engineer. Over the decades, he steadily rose through the ranks, gaining experience across technical, operational and managerial roles — a path that gave him deep, hands-on knowledge of how airlines function beyond the executive office.
His ascent culminated in 2004, when he was appointed chief executive officer of Ethiopian Airlines, a position he held until 2011.
Transforming Ethiopian Airlines
Wake’s tenure as CEO is widely regarded as a turning point for Ethiopian Airlines. Under his leadership, the airline embarked on aggressive but carefully managed expansion, modernising its fleet, opening new long-haul routes and strengthening Addis Ababa’s position as a major African aviation hub.
During this period, Ethiopian Airlines joined the Star Alliance, expanded its presence in Europe, Asia and North America, and invested heavily in new-generation aircraft, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The airline also deepened its focus on cargo operations and aviation training, laying the groundwork for sustained growth.
Industry analysts often credit Wake with promoting strong corporate governance, commercial discipline and long-term strategic planning — principles that helped shield Ethiopian Airlines from the chronic instability that has plagued many state-owned African carriers.
Continued Influence Across African Aviation
After stepping down as CEO in 2011, Wake remained a central figure in African aviation. He served as chairman of RwandAir’s board, advising the fast-growing airline during a key phase of its expansion, and later returned to Ethiopian Airlines as board chairman, a role he held until 2023.
His influence has extended beyond individual airlines, with Wake frequently involved in regional aviation initiatives, advisory roles and policy discussions focused on sustainability, safety and professional management in African aviation.
Why He Is Being Tipped for Uganda Airlines
Wake’s name has surfaced at a time when Uganda Airlines is under intense pressure to reset its leadership and management approach. The airline has struggled with persistent losses, governance challenges and operational inefficiencies since its relaunch in 2019, prompting growing calls for reform.
Sources familiar with discussions following his February 4 meeting with President Museveni say Wake is being considered for a stabilising role, potentially on an interim or advisory basis, even as the airline continues with an open recruitment process for a substantive CEO.
His age places him outside the eligibility criteria for the advertised CEO position, which sets an upper age limit of 60. However, insiders say this has not diminished his appeal, with many viewing his experience and stature as assets at a time when credibility and discipline are paramount.
For now, officials stress that no formal appointment has been made and that discussions are ongoing. Uganda Airlines’ board is expected to proceed with the recruitment of a permanent chief executive, while transitional leadership options are evaluated.
Even so, Wake’s meeting with the President has firmly positioned him as the front-runner in the conversation about the airline’s future. For supporters of reform, his potential involvement represents a shift toward professional, aviation-led management — and a belief that the lessons behind Ethiopian Airlines’ success could help chart a more sustainable path for Uganda’s national carrier.