President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has given his full support to the proposed Mbarara International Airport, emphasizing the government’s commitment to working closely with the developers and ensuring the project meets national and environmental standards.
The endorsement came on Thursday, 4th September, 2025, during a meeting at State House, Entebbe, with representatives of a China-based group proposing to construct the airport in Nyakisharara, Mbarara District.
The group was represented by Base 7 Aviation International Academy and consultants from Hamster Business Solutions.
President Museveni urged the group to coordinate closely with the government’s technical teams to finalize plans.
“We welcome this project and will support the construction of an iconic international airport in Mbarara. Coordination with our technical teams is critical to ensure success,” Museveni said.
During the meeting, the president highlighted the project’s potential to strengthen the country’s economy, create jobs, and promote tourism and agriculture.
He also called for careful environmental preservation during construction, noting the historical significance of the Nyakisharara area.
The proposed project will see Hunan Construction and Investment Engineering Company handling construction, the China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute overseeing feasibility and design, and Blackrock Uwekeza financing and operating the airport under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model.
President Museveni described the airport as a strategic infrastructure initiative under his Party and Term Oriented Delivery program, projecting that it will transform the region and enhance Uganda’s position in regional and international aviation.
With full government backing and careful coordination with developers, the Mbarara International Airport is set to become a landmark project.
Beyond boosting the economy and creating jobs, it promises to strengthen Uganda’s position in regional and international aviation, while respecting the environment and the historical significance of Nyakisharara.
