Entebbe, Uganda: Uganda Airlines has launched scheduled direct flights to Kigali, Rwanda, and Accra, Ghana, marking a significant expansion of its African route network as the national carrier seeks to strengthen regional connectivity, trade, tourism and investment.
The inaugural flights were flagged off on Wednesday at Entebbe International Airport during a ceremony attended by senior government officials, diplomats and aviation stakeholders, underscoring the strategic importance of the new routes to Uganda’s regional integration and economic transformation agenda.
Among the dignitaries present were the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Bagiire, Ambassador Richard Kabonero, Head of Regional Economic Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Rwanda, Ambassador Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Robert Rusoke, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joseph Rutabana, and the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala.
Speaking during the launch, Uganda Airlines Acting Chief Executive Officer Girma Wake described Kigali and Accra as strategic destinations that will create new opportunities for the airline while supporting Uganda’s broader economic ambitions.
“These destinations present significant opportunities in business, trade, tourism and investment, which are key drivers of air transport demand. These cities remain under-connected to much of Eastern and Southern Africa and are currently unserved by Uganda,” Wake said.
“We started the Kigali route very late. I believe it should have been launched on day one,” he added.
The addition of Kigali and Accra significantly broadens Uganda Airlines’ footprint across Africa, offering travellers more direct connections while strengthening links between East and West Africa.
According to the airline, the Kigali route is expected to deepen commercial ties, facilitate tourism and reinforce the longstanding relationship between Uganda and Rwanda.
The new Accra service provides Uganda with a strategic gateway into West Africa, opening new opportunities for trade, investment, diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange.
The routes also form part of Uganda Airlines’ long-term strategy to position Entebbe International Airport as a regional aviation hub while supporting implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) through improved air connectivity.
Beyond passenger travel, Uganda Airlines expects the new services to enhance cargo transportation, strengthen regional supply chains and improve Uganda’s competitiveness as a hub for commerce, tourism and investment.
The launch comes as the national carrier continues expanding its network across Africa and beyond in pursuit of its vision to connect Uganda with key business and tourism destinations while contributing to the country’s economic transformation.
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