Inside Uganda’s plan to build a huge airport next to a remote national park
Uganda is planning to build a major international airport next to one of its most remote national parks as part of efforts to boost tourism and trade.
The project, called Kidepo International Airport, will be located in the country’s northeast, close to the borders with Kenya and South Sudan.
The airport will be built near Kidepo Valley National Park, a protected area known for its large populations of lions, giraffes, elephants, and zebras.
The park is home to more than 80 types of mammals and nearly 500 bird species, making it one of Uganda’s top wildlife destinations.
The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry from the United Arab Emirates has signed an agreement with the Ugandan government to build the airport.
It will have a 3.6-kilometre runway and a terminal that can handle up to 2 million passengers each year. Hotels are also expected to be developed as part of the wider plan to attract more visitors to the area.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who attended the signing of the agreement, said the project reflects growing ties with Gulf nations and will bring jobs, investment, and training opportunities to the local population.
Sheikh Sultan, the Ruler of Sharjah, also reviewed the airport’s engineering plans and was briefed on the services the new hub will provide.
At present, the only airport near Kidepo is a small airstrip managed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.
The new international airport is seen as a major upgrade that could link the remote area to global cities and improve both passenger and cargo transport.
However, the region has faced security concerns.
The UK’s Foreign Office currently advises against all but essential travel to parts of northeast Uganda, including Kaabong District, where the airport is planned.
The warning is due to threats such as cattle theft, armed attacks, and seasonal flooding.
The Ugandan government, however, says the airport will play a key role in tapping into the economic potential of the northeast and bringing international attention to one of Africa’s lesser-known parks.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
