President Yoweri Museveni has thrown his weight behind a proposal to construct an international airport at Nyakisharara in Mbarara District, describing it as a transformative project that will drive economic growth and connect Uganda more firmly to the global market.
The President made this commitment while meeting representatives of Base 7 Aviation International Academy and their consultants, Hamster Business Solutions, at State House Entebbe on Thursday.
The group presented a detailed blueprint of the airport, which will be developed by a consortium of Chinese and international partners.
According to project officials, Mugabi Charles and Alexandria Judith Kyakunzire, the venture will involve three specialized firms.
Hunan Construction and Investment Engineering Company will take charge of construction, China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute will manage feasibility studies and designs, while Blackrock Uwekeza will provide financing and oversee operations under a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) model.
Museveni warmly welcomed the delegation and assured them of government backing, describing the planned facility as an “iconic international airport” that will change the face of Mbarara.
He instructed the team to work closely with government technical experts to finalize project details, emphasizing that the airport will boost trade, tourism, agriculture, and employment opportunities.
During the engagement, the President reflected on the historical significance of Nyakisharara and stressed that environmental conservation must remain a priority throughout the construction process.
On behalf of Blackrock Uwekeza, Bethuel Macharia confirmed the company’s readiness to finance the entire project, highlighting the broad economic advantages it will bring to Uganda.
Consultants Eddie Kisitu and Abubakar Kaseruuzi explained that the airport would elevate Uganda’s position as a transit hub linking Latin America, China, Indonesia, and Australia.
They projected that the new facility could generate billions in revenue while expanding regional flight routes.
The consortium also shared optimistic economic forecasts, indicating that once operational, the airport could triple Uganda’s economic output.
Completion of the project is anticipated by 2030, under the framework of the President’s Party and Term Oriented Delivery initiative.
