Entebbe International Airport, a vital gateway to Uganda and the wider East African region is on the cusp of a remarkable transformation. Under the diligent oversight of Mr. Fred Bamwesigye, Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), the airport’s upgrade and expansion project has surged to an impressive 90 percent completion. This ambitious endeavor, spearheaded by the China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) to the tune of $200 million, promises not only to modernize the airport but also to significantly enhance its operational capacity.
At the heart of this endeavor lies the construction of a sprawling 20,000-square-meter terminal building, a monumental structure that will seamlessly integrate with the existing terminal, augmenting the airport’s facilities and services. As Mr. Bamwesigye proudly announced, this pivotal structure stands at a commendable 60 percent completion, signaling substantial progress in the project. Moreover, the expansion of Apron 1, crucial for accommodating aircraft, is nearing finalization at an impressive 95 percent.
The accomplishments achieved thus far are a testament to the dedication and expertise of all involved, with milestones such as the resurfacing of runways and taxiways, construction of a state-of-the-art Cargo Centre, and refurbishment of key aprons already realized. These endeavors underscore a commitment to excellence and a vision for the future of aviation in Uganda.
Central to the expansion project is the imperative to address the burgeoning air traffic demand. Entebbe International Airport has experienced a steady increase in passenger volumes, with March 2024 witnessing over 170,000 international passengers passing through its gates. This surge in traffic, averaging over 6,000 passengers per day in recent months, necessitates infrastructure upgrades to ensure seamless operations and superior passenger experiences.
The impending completion of the new terminal building in 2024 heralds a new era for Entebbe International Airport, with its capacity set to soar from two million to at least 3.5 million passengers annually. This significant enhancement underscores Uganda’s commitment to fostering economic growth, facilitating tourism, and bolstering regional connectivity.
However, amidst the triumphs, challenges have emerged, exemplified by the recent inundation of the airport’s car parking area due to heavy rainfall. While viral videos may have painted a misleading picture of the extent of the disruption, Mr. Bamwesigye reassures the public that measures are in place to mitigate such occurrences. The ongoing construction prioritizes the interconnection of drainage systems, ensuring resilience against future incidents and safeguarding operational continuity.
As Uganda prepares for the next phase of expansion, Eng Ayub Sooma, Director of Airports and Aviation Security, outlines ambitious plans to widen the runway to accommodate behemoths like the Airbus A380. This forward-thinking approach underscores Uganda’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of aviation infrastructure development in the region.
Amidst the construction frenzy and anticipation of a revitalized airport, Mr. Bamwesigye issues a poignant reminder of the importance of national pride and responsible sharing of information. Encouraging Ugandans to refrain from disseminating negative imagery that may tarnish the country’s image, he underscores the pivotal role of tourism in Uganda’s economic landscape.
In conclusion, the transformative journey of Entebbe International Airport stands as a beacon of progress and promise for Uganda. With visionary leadership, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, the skies are limitless for Uganda’s aviation ambitions.
