Ebrahim Sadrudin Kisoro, a pilot, was born in Uganda during British colonial rule. His family’s roots trace back to Pakistani immigrants brought to Uganda by the British to contribute to the construction of the Uganda Railway. Despite the turbulent political landscape under dictator Idi Amin’s regime, Ebrahim’s family managed to endure, despite being part of the Asian community targeted for expulsion.
The year 1979 marked a pivotal moment for Ebrahim as he embarked on his career as a trainee pilot for East African Airways. However, the political situation in Uganda took a dramatic turn when neighboring Tanzania launched an invasion, leading to the ousting of Idi Amin from power. Faced with the looming threat of violence from Amin’s defeated troops, Ebrahim and a fellow trainee pilot found themselves devising a daring plan to escape the escalating conflict.
Their plan involved a bold and risky maneuver: stealing a plane to fly themselves and their colleagues to safety. However, this plan was not without its challenges. Neither Ebrahim nor his colleague had experience flying the large aircraft required for their escape. Additionally, upon inspection, they discovered that the flight manual, essential for operating the plane, was missing.
Despite these daunting obstacles, Ebrahim and his fellow trainee remained undeterred in their determination to flee the impending danger. With lives at stake and time running out, they embarked on a perilous journey, relying on their instincts and limited aviation knowledge to navigate through the chaos of war.
The story of Ebrahim’s escape from Uganda amidst the turmoil of Idi Amin’s regime is a testament to human resilience and courage in the face of adversity. It highlights the extraordinary lengths individuals are willing to go to ensure their survival and the safety of others during times of crisis.
Presented by Emily Webb and produced by Eric Mugaju, this narrative sheds light on a remarkable chapter in Uganda’s history and the indomitable spirit of its people. Ebrahim’s tale serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit and the power of hope even in the darkest of times.
Listen to the full podcast on BBC Outlook.
