Uganda has committed Shs 3.6 trillion to dramatically expand Uganda Airlines’ fleet, aiming to forge a dominant regional aviation hub.
Transport Minister Fred Byamukama unveiled the massive self-funded investment during the launch of new routes to Kigali and Accra on Wednesday.
The ambitious package funds ten new aircraft, comprising four Boeing 737s for short routes, four 787 Dreamliners, and two cargo freighters.
Uganda will finance the entire expansion directly from national coffers, completely bypassing international lenders to preserve economic sovereignty, Byamukama confirmed.
The investment aims to supercharge agricultural exports and position the East African nation as an indispensable node in global commerce.
Deliveries remain a distant horizon, with the first Boeing 737s expected in 2032 and the long-haul Dreamliners arriving from 2033.
The capital injection comes at a stormy time, as engine-related groundings currently handicap nearly 60 percent of the fleet’s total capacity.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Girma Wake warned that the next two years will decisively determine whether the carrier achieves financial viability.
To bridge the operational gap until deliveries arrive, Uganda Airlines will rely heavily on short-term aircraft leases to maintain schedules.
Government leaders insist the national flag bearer serves a higher purpose beyond basic transit, acting as an engine for economic growth.