President Yoweri Museveni has officially broken ground for the construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karenga District, marking the start of a major infrastructure project expected to transform tourism, trade, and investment in the Karamoja sub-region.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Museveni said Karamoja’s progress from years of insecurity and cattle rustling to relative peace has created the foundation for large-scale development projects.
“Karamoja has come a long way from the days of insecurity, cattle rustling, and lawlessness. The restoration of peace has created the conditions for the region to develop,” the President said.
The new airport, located near Kidepo Valley National Park, is expected to improve access to one of Uganda’s premier tourist destinations, attract international investors, create employment opportunities, and expand markets for local products.
Museveni revealed that more than 1,600 Ugandans are already working on the project and praised investors from Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates for partnering with Uganda on the ambitious venture.
The airport project stems from a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Government of Uganda and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Once completed, it will become Uganda’s third major international airport.
Plans indicate the airport will feature a 3,600-metre runway capable of handling large aircraft, including the Boeing 777, significantly boosting connectivity to the remote northeastern region.
Government officials say the project forms part of Uganda’s broader strategy to expand aviation infrastructure beyond Entebbe International Airport and strengthen regional economic integration.
The announcement generated mixed reactions online. While many Ugandans welcomed the project as a catalyst for tourism and economic growth, others called on the government to address persistent challenges such as food insecurity and poverty in Karamoja alongside major infrastructure investments.
