Uganda has taken a significant step towards boosting its tourism and economic prospects by signing a pact with a business association from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to construct a new international airport. This landmark agreement, announced by President Yoweri Museveni’s office on Friday, marks the construction of the East African nation’s third international airport and expands the UAE’s economic involvement in the region beyond its established interests in the renewable energy and oil and gas sectors.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of the Kidepo International Airport was signed by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce chairman, Mr. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, and Uganda’s minister of works and transport, Gen Katumba Wamala. The airport is set to be built just outside the Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the northeastern part of Uganda near the border with Kenya.
President Museveni, who witnessed the signing, emphasized that this agreement is indicative of the strengthening relations between Uganda and its Gulf partners. He stated in a post on X, “The agreement is a sign of the deepening relations with our Gulf partners and another opportunity to cooperate in investment and trade.” This development is expected to enhance Uganda’s connectivity with the rest of the world, thereby fostering greater economic growth and integration.
The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, represented by its chairman Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, has committed to starting the construction in August. This new infrastructure project is anticipated to play a pivotal role in boosting tourism by attracting visitors to the Kidepo Valley National Park. The park, spanning 1,442 square kilometers (557 square miles), is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and other big game. The presence of an international airport in close proximity to the park is expected to make it more accessible to international tourists, thereby increasing tourism revenue and contributing to the local economy.
The construction of the Kidepo International Airport aligns with Uganda’s broader strategic objectives of improving infrastructure and promoting tourism. It also reflects the UAE’s growing economic footprint in East Africa, as the Gulf nation continues to seek investment opportunities in various sectors. The involvement of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry in this project underscores the UAE’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Uganda and supporting its development initiatives.
This new airport will not only facilitate easier access for tourists but also enhance the region’s capacity to handle international travel and cargo. This development is expected to bring about significant socio-economic benefits, including job creation, improved transportation networks, and increased foreign exchange earnings from tourism.
In conclusion, the agreement between Uganda and the UAE for the construction of the Kidepo International Airport is a major milestone in Uganda’s infrastructure development and tourism promotion efforts. It signifies a deepening of bilateral relations and opens up new avenues for economic cooperation and investment. As construction begins in August, the region can look forward to the numerous benefits that this new international gateway will bring.
