Uganda’s aviation infrastructure is set for a significant boost after the African Development Bank (AfDB) approved €155.99 million (approximately Shs650 billion) for the transformation of Arua Airport into an international-standard facility.
The project is expected to enhance regional connectivity, stimulate trade and tourism, and attract new investment opportunities to the country’s West Nile region, positioning the area as a growing economic gateway.
The financing was approved by the African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors under Phase One of the Uganda Airports Development Programme.
Arua Airport lies about 450 kilometres from Kampala and serves as the main air transport link for West Nile, one of Uganda’s most strategically located regions. The area borders South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, two important markets for Ugandan exports.
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Despite its location, West Nile has long faced transport challenges that have limited trade, tourism and investment opportunities.
The airport upgrade aims to address these constraints by improving domestic and regional connectivity.
Under the project, authorities will construct a 3.5-kilometre runway capable of handling large aircraft, including Boeing 777 passenger and cargo planes.
The project will also include new taxiways, aircraft parking areas, a passenger terminal with capacity to handle 700,000 travellers annually, and a cargo terminal designed to process 25,000 tonnes of goods each year.
