President Yoweri Museveni flagging off the construction work
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The Uganda Government through the Ministry of Works and Transport has committed Sh23 billion to fund the Jinja airfield’s upgrading.
President Yoweri Museveni today officially launched the construction works for upgrading the Jinja Airfield, pointing out that it’s a transformative project aimed at bolstering Uganda’s infrastructure, enhancing tourism and improving regional connectivity.
“Jinja has potential to become a transportation hub and gateway for tourists. The project will see the development of the airfield’s runway, taxiway, and apron into international standards,” said the President, adding that the move was a key step toward positioning Jinja as a critical link in the country’s transportation network.
“Constructing and expanding the airfield is logical. It will enable tourists to reach their destinations on time and ease transportation for both people and goods,” he said.
He noted the significant strides Uganda has made since 1986, transforming from a struggling economy with limited infrastructure to a dynamic nation on the path to industrialization.
“Government has a broader vision of rehabilitating and expanding airfields, railway stations, and even introducing water transport to reduce road congestion and accidents.”
President Museveni stressed the importance of air travel for high-value tourists who prefer swift journeys. He revealed plans to establish an international airport in Kidepo National Park to enhance access to Uganda’s pristine wildlife destinations.
Development of the airfield will enable Uganda harness the dividends from oil pipelines that are being constructed to Kenya and Tanzania. This is expected to eliminate the need for transporting petroleum products by road, which contributes to accidents.
The upgrade, spearheaded by a joint venture between Gofar Investment and MJ Engineers and Contractors, commenced in 2024 and is set to be completed within 15 months.
Rebecca Kadaga, First Deputy Prime Minister, appealed to the President for an additional 10 acres of land to further expand the airfield and accommodate the growing demands of an international airport.
President Yoweri Museveni being received at the airfield
She noted that the people of Jinja have long dreamed of such an airport, adding that this project brings them closer to that vision.
Fred Byamukama, State Minister for Works and Transport, emphasized the project’s potential to enhance tourism.
“Tourists have faced challenges traveling from Kampala to Jinja by road. This upgrade will significantly boost the tourism sector,” he said and assured Ugandans that the ministry is committed to ensuring the project’s timely and successful completion.