Uganda's COSASE questions UCAA over Sh5.3985 billion fire vehicle

Uganda’s Parliamentary Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) is investigating the procurement of a specialized fire-fighting vehicle by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). The vehicle, a Turkish-manufactured Lion 6X6 Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit, was purchased for Sh5.3985 billion.

During committee meetings, officials were pressed to justify the high cost and provide documentation regarding the procurement process and ownership. UCAA Director General Fred Bamwesigye defended the expenditure, noting that the vehicle is specialized aircraft rescue equipment rather than a standard fire engine. The unit features a 12,500-litre water tank and specialized tools designed for aircraft evacuation and access to damaged planes.