Uganda has set its sights on a dramatic transformation of its transport and economic landscape with plans to establish 20 international airports across the country. The ambitious program is intended to stimulate tourism, strengthen trade links, and open up remote regions to global opportunities, marking one of the largest infrastructure undertakings in the nation’s history.
The vision was unveiled by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who disclosed that groundwork has already begun in several regions. Kabale has secured land for its airport project, while Kotido has attracted a private investor ready to finance construction, signaling strong confidence from both government and business leaders.
Tayebwa emphasized that the airports will act as development anchors rather than mere transit points. Surrounding each facility will be new tourism and commercial infrastructure, including hotels and service industries, designed to convert underdeveloped towns into vibrant centers of economic activity and international visitation.
One of the most advanced projects is Kabalega International Airport in Hoima District, which is nearing completion and is expected to become Uganda’s second major international gateway. Featuring a 3.5-kilometre runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, the airport will support passenger travel, cargo movement, and oil-sector logistics, reinforcing the country’s industrial ambitions.
Uganda’s main aviation hub, Entebbe International Airport, continues to expand in response to a steady rise in international traffic. With millions of passengers now passing through annually, the facility is undergoing phased upgrades to modernize terminals, enhance safety systems, and improve overall efficiency to meet growing demand.
Further strengthening the plan, President Yoweri Museveni has approved a massive new airport project at Nyakisharara near Mbarara. Designed for long-haul intercontinental flights, the development will span more than 21 square kilometres and be implemented through a Build-Operate-Transfer partnership model that includes hotels, roads, and commercial zones.
Leaders believe the nationwide airport expansion will also provide relief for Uganda Airlines by creating more domestic routes and lowering the cost of air travel within the country. Affordable internal flights are expected to boost sports tourism, business travel, and access to regions that were previously difficult to reach.
This sweeping aviation strategy is tied to Uganda’s broader ambition of growing its economy to $550 billion by 2040, guided by four pillars: agriculture, tourism, minerals, and science and technology. If executed as planned, the new network of international airports could turn Uganda into a key aviation hub in East Africa and redefine its role in global commerce and travel.
