AfDB Funds Shs674 Billion Upgrade for Arua Airport

A significant financial commitment from the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, amounting to Shs674.1 billion (€155.99 million), has been approved to upgrade Arua Airport. This initiative is part of the Uganda Airports Development Programme and aims to elevate the airport to international standards, thereby stimulating economic growth in Uganda’s West Nile region.

The strategic location of Arua Airport, situated approximately 450 kilometers northwest of Kampala, positions it as a crucial gateway not only for the West Nile region but also for neighboring South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the region’s economic potential has been historically constrained by existing limitations in aviation infrastructure.

Under the planned expansion, Arua Airport will see substantial improvements to accommodate larger aircraft, increased passenger traffic, and greater cargo volumes. Key upgrades include the construction of a 3.5-kilometer paved runway suitable for wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 777. Additionally, new taxiways, aircraft aprons, a modern passenger terminal designed for up to 700,000 passengers annually, and a cargo terminal capable of processing 25,000 tonnes of freight per year are planned.

A new air traffic control tower, improved access roads, expanded parking facilities, and enhanced aviation safety systems will also be part of the development. The AfDB will provide the bulk of the funding through a loan of Shs609.9 billion, with the African Development Fund contributing Shs64.1 billion. The Ugandan government will provide Shs7.6 billion as counterpart funding.

Mike Salawou, AfDB Director for Infrastructure and Urban Development, highlighted that the project transcends mere infrastructure, focusing on creating economic opportunities and connecting people to markets. The upgraded airport is expected to unlock significant potential in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, trade, logistics, and mineral development. The construction phase itself is projected to create around 500 direct jobs and over 1,400 indirect jobs, with specific training programs planned for local youth and women.

Source: Nile Post