ENTEBBE — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has witnessed the signing of a landmark agreement between Uganda Airlines and Boeing for the acquisition of 10 new aircraft, a move expected to significantly expand Uganda’s aviation capacity and strengthen its connectivity to global markets.
The agreement was signed during a ceremony at State House Entebbe attended by senior government officials, representatives of the U.S. Embassy, members of the Uganda Airlines Board of Directors, executives from Boeing, and officials from the aviation sector.
The fleet expansion package includes eight passenger aircraft and two dedicated cargo freighters, positioning the national carrier for increased regional, continental and intercontinental operations.
Under the agreement, Uganda Airlines will acquire one Boeing 767 wide-body converted freighter and one Boeing 737 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF), strengthening the airline’s cargo business and enhancing Uganda’s capacity to transport exports to international markets.
Government officials said the investment is aligned with Uganda’s Vision 2040 development agenda and is expected to support economic growth by improving connectivity for trade, tourism and investment.
In a statement issued after the signing ceremony, State House described the agreement as a major milestone in Uganda’s efforts to establish itself as a key regional aviation hub.
“The fleet expansion, which includes passenger and cargo aircraft, will strengthen trade, tourism, and investment, and position Uganda as a key regional aviation hub,” the statement said.
Officials noted that the expanded fleet will play a critical role in supporting priority sectors of the economy, including agriculture, tourism, minerals and services, by providing faster and more efficient access to regional and international markets.
The acquisition is expected to increase passenger capacity, open up new routes and improve the movement of high-value exports, particularly agricultural products that require reliable air freight services.
Uganda Airlines management described the agreement as a strategic investment in the future of the national carrier and the country’s broader economic transformation agenda.
Beyond aircraft acquisition, the deal establishes a long-term partnership between Uganda Airlines and Boeing. Boeing Vice President of Sales for Africa Anbessie Yitbarek pledged continued support through technical expertise, specialized training and capacity-building initiatives aimed at ensuring the airline’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness.
The airline also expressed appreciation to the government negotiating team and the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority for their role in facilitating the agreement.
The latest acquisition represents one of the most significant investments in Uganda’s aviation industry and is expected to enhance the country’s competitiveness as a destination for business, tourism and cargo transportation.
With the additional aircraft, Uganda Airlines hopes to strengthen its position in Africa’s increasingly competitive aviation market while advancing plans to transform Entebbe into a major gateway for passenger and cargo traffic across the region.