Uganda, UAE firm sign landmark deal to develop Kidepo International Airport

KAMPALA, UGANDA – In a significant boost to Uganda’s tourism and economic sectors, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of Uganda and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry from the United Arab Emirates.

“I welcome the signing of this MOU between Uganda and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry,” President Museveni said. “Uganda and the Gulf countries have strengthened relations, which were not there in the past. There is a lot of potential for investment between Uganda and the Gulf countries, which should be explored.”

The historic agreement, signed at Speke Resort Munyonyo, paves the way for the construction of Kidepo International Airport near Kidepo National Park and tourist hotels within the park. The project aims to enhance Uganda’s tourism industry and economy.

H.E Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, the Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said, “The construction of the airport is set to start in August 2024, and we promise to deliver good work on time.”

The signing ceremony was also attended by Ministers Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, Gen. Katumba Wamala, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, and H.E Abdalla Hassan Alshamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Uganda.

“This partnership is a testament to the growing relations between Uganda and the UAE,” said H.E Abdalla Hassan Alshamsi. “We are committed to supporting Uganda’s development goals through investments in key sectors like tourism.”

The MOU was signed by the Ministry of Works and Transport, Civil Aviation Authority, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

This development is expected to significantly boost Uganda’s tourism sector and economy, creating new opportunities for growth and development.