Fort Portal Tourism City — Air transportation emerged as a key focus at the 6th Bi-Annual Private Sector CEO Retreat, with the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) outlining ambitious plans to position the country as a regional aviation hub and tourism powerhouse.
Speaking to stakeholders, Ms Olive Lumonya, Deputy Director-General of UCAA, provided a comprehensive update on ongoing infrastructure projects. “The new terminal building at Entebbe International Airport is now 98% complete, expanding capacity from 2 million to 3.5 million passengers annually,” Lumonya revealed, noting that this milestone will dramatically improve Uganda’s connectivity and competitiveness.
In August 2025, Entebbe International Airport facilitated 116,507 arrivals and 126,582 departures, a total of 243,089 international passengers, which is an average of 7,841 arrivals and departures per day. The August 2025 international traffic is higher than the previous record set in July 2025.
She highlighted similar progress across the country. “Runway and terminal upgrades in Kisoro are complete, a new terminal in Pakuba is advancing, and plans for Arua are underway,” she said, adding that “Gulu is also being prepared to handle international flights, unlocking the northern tourism circuit for direct traffic.”
Lumonya stressed that while UCAA is delivering on aviation infrastructure, the success of Uganda’s tourism ambitions requires joint efforts. “The call is now on all of us—the government, private sector, and communities—to complement these investments by promoting domestic tourism, improving accessibility, and positioning Uganda as the jewel of Africa,” she urged.
The retreat, held at the scenic Mountains of the Moon in Fort Portal Tourism City, concluded with 16 concrete resolutions to transform the tourism sector. These included commitments to improve tourism infrastructure, ensure reliable access to water and electricity, review the tax policy for tourism, enable access to affordable and patient capital, and address the impact of negative media and travel advisories.
Before delivering President Yoweri Museveni’s keynote address, the Guest of Honour and Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja reassured participants of the government’s commitment. “We are determined to improve infrastructure, drive regional development, and strengthen public-private partnerships to make Uganda a top tourism destination,” she affirmed.
The outcomes of the retreat signal renewed momentum for Uganda’s tourism and aviation sectors, with stakeholders agreeing that collaboration and investment are key to unlocking the country’s full potential.