Overview:
Unveiled last week as part of efforts to enhance passenger experience, the upgraded lounge was initially lauded for expanding capacity and improving amenities—including baby changing rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, a prayer space, and conference rooms.
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) is planning adjustments to the interior design of the newly refurbished Karibuni Business Lounge at Entebbe International Airport following a wave of online criticism over its aesthetics, layout, and quality of finish.
Unveiled last week as part of efforts to enhance passenger experience, the upgraded lounge was initially lauded for expanding capacity and improving amenities—including baby changing rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, a prayer space, and conference rooms. The revamped facility more than doubled its sitting capacity, from 160 to 300, and added features such as an infant playroom, designated smoking area, and massage chairs.
However, within hours of the launch, social media users sharply criticized what they perceived as bland interior design, poor furniture selection, and a general lack of modern sophistication. BBC journalist Alan Kasujja described the design as “bland, tasteless, perfunctory, and unambitious,” likening it to a furniture showroom in Katwe, a Kampala suburb known for local manufacturing.
Comparisons were swiftly drawn between Entebbe’s lounge and business lounges in international hubs like Dubai and Singapore, as well as in neighbouring East African capitals. Despite some voices defending the functional purpose of the space, the backlash sparked a broader debate about public infrastructure design and ambition.
In response, UCAA acknowledged the criticism as “constructive feedback” and pledged to work with the private concessionaire that manages Karibuni Lounge to improve the interior.
“We value the views of users of the facilities and the general public as these help us ensure that airport services reflect the expectations and comfort of all,” said Mr. Vianney Luggya, UCAA’s Manager of Public Affairs.
He clarified that the lounge’s interior design and furnishing were carried out by Karibuni Lounge’s management, not UCAA directly. “We have seriously taken note of concerns regarding furniture, colours, and layout, and we pledge to engage the concessionaire to implement the required improvements,” he added.
Planned changes could include tweaks to furniture design, colour schemes, and general layout to better align with international standards and traveller expectations.
While critics zeroed in on the design shortcomings, others urged perspective. Governance activist Norah Owaraga defended the upgrade, saying the focus was rightly on expanding capacity to serve more passengers.
“For us who travel ordinary class, I have not encountered much better waiting areas in other parts of the world,” she said. “If the furniture was made in Uganda by small businesses, I’m even happier.”
At the launch event, Minister for Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala praised the lounge expansion as a step towards positioning Entebbe as a competitive regional gateway.
“This upgrade is not just about aesthetics—it reflects Uganda’s readiness to meet the evolving needs of international travellers,” the minister said, announcing plans to commission a new multi-billion-shilling terminal and welcome a new double-decker aircraft at Entebbe.
UCAA Director General Fred K. Bamwesigye reiterated that the new lounge fits into a broader strategy to improve passenger experience and showcase Uganda as a welcoming destination.
Despite the backlash, UCAA urged the public to remain calm, committing to ongoing improvements. “We’re not just investing in facilities,” Mr. Luggya said, “we are investing in the image and comfort of Uganda’s international gateway.”