Uganda has secured fresh financing from the African Development Bank Group African Development Bank Group to upgrade Arua Airport, a project officials say will improve regional connectivity and support trade across East Africa. The funding is part of a broader push to strengthen transport infrastructure and reduce logistics bottlenecks in underserved parts of the country.

The expansion targets Arua Airport in the country’s northwest, a key gateway to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The airport sits about 450 kilometers from Kampala and currently handles limited domestic traffic, despite rising demand for faster movement of goods and passengers across the border regions.

Officials say the upgrade will shift Arua toward international standards, with a longer runway, expanded passenger facilities, and improved cargo handling capacity. The aim is to make it easier for airlines to operate larger aircraft and for businesses to move perishable goods more efficiently to regional markets.

Financing structure and project scope

The project is backed by $179 million in financing, combining loans from the African Development Bank and the African Development Fund, alongside a contribution from the Ugandan government. The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Uganda Civil Aviation Authority will oversee implementation, including construction of a 3.5-kilometer runway, new taxiways, a passenger terminal, and a cargo facility.

Fred Bamwesigye, director general of the aviation authority, said the airport will improve operational resilience and provide an additional landing option during disruptions at Entebbe International Airport. He said the project reflects growing demand for safer and more reliable air transport in the region.

Trade links, jobs and regional access

The upgrade is expected to support agriculture, tourism, and cross-border trade by reducing transport time and improving access to markets. Officials estimate hundreds of jobs during construction and additional employment in logistics, hospitality, and related services once the airport becomes operational.

The African Development Bank said the investment aligns with Uganda’s long-term infrastructure plans, which focus on improving market access and supporting regional integration. For communities in the West Nile region, the project is expected to improve mobility and strengthen economic links with neighboring countries.