The African Development Bank (AfDB) has entered advanced talks with Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport on plans to upgrade Arua Airport into a fully-fledged international airport, a move expected to significantly boost trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.
During a meeting with Permanent Secretary Bageya Waiswa, the Bank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Aerodromes Development Project, which seeks to transform Uganda’s regional airfields into an international-standard network. The project aligns with both the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and the Civil Aviation Master Plan, reflecting the government’s agenda for modern transport infrastructure and economic transformation.
Upgrading Arua Airport will position it as a key aviation hub for Uganda’s West Nile region and a gateway to the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and beyond.
Arua Airport: Phase One Priority
Under the proposed phased development, Arua Airport has been prioritised for Phase One implementation due to its strategic location in Arua City, the regional capital of West Nile. The area serves as a major economic and commercial corridor, linking Uganda to multiple neighbouring countries.
“The project will boost trade, agriculture, tourism, cargo and job creation, driving economic transformation and poverty alleviation for Uganda and the wider region,” the Works Ministry posted on X.
Part of a Wider Aerodrome Network
The Aerodromes Development Project targets the modernisation of several key regional airports, including Gulu, Pakuba, Kidepo, Kisoro, and Kasese, ensuring that Uganda has a robust secondary aviation network to complement Entebbe International Airport.
This strategic approach is expected to decongest Entebbe, expand aviation access across the country, and position Uganda as a regional aviation hub for both passengers and cargo.
Farmers in northern and western Uganda will gain access to faster export routes for perishable goods, while the tourism industry will benefit from easier access to national parks such as Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
The African Development Bank is expected to undertake a pre-approval mission in the coming months, paving the way for detailed feasibility studies, environmental assessments, and eventual funding approval.