Uganda has taken a significant step in its aviation expansion strategy after President Yoweri Museveni witnessed the signing of a multi-billion-shilling agreement between Uganda Airlines and Boeing for the acquisition of 10 new aircraft.
The ceremony, held at State House Entebbe, brought together senior government officials, aviation executives, and representatives from Boeing, marking what authorities describe as a defining moment in the national carrier’s post-revival growth trajectory.
Following the signing, Uganda’s Ambassador Adonia Ayebare publicly welcomed the development, praising President Museveni’s leadership and framing the deal as a transformative milestone for the country’s economy and aviation sector.
“Thank you Kaguta Museveni for your leadership on this landmark agreement between Uganda Airlines and Boeing for the acquisition of 10 new aircrafts which will contribute to Uganda’s 10-fold growth,” Ayebare stated.
He further noted that the deal was the result of coordinated efforts across key government institutions, acknowledging the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Ministry of Finance, and Uganda Airlines management for their roles in pushing the agreement forward.
“I am happy to have worked alongside colleagues in the Ministry of Works, Finance and Uganda Airlines to make this deal happen,” he added.
Ayebare also extended appreciation to Uganda’s international partners, particularly the United States diplomatic mission in Kampala, highlighting their involvement in facilitating broader cooperation within the aviation sector.
“I also thank our friends US Embassy Uganda for their role,” he said.
The agreement will see Uganda Airlines acquire a mixed fleet of eight passenger aircraft and two cargo freighters, aimed at strengthening both regional connectivity and long-haul operations while expanding cargo capacity to support trade.
Officials have previously indicated that the Boeing deal is central to Uganda Airlines’ long-term ambition of positioning Entebbe as a competitive regional aviation hub.
The expansion is expected to enhance tourism flows, reduce reliance on foreign carriers, and improve cargo logistics for exporters.
Since its relaunch in 2019, Uganda Airlines has gradually expanded its route network across Africa and beyond. The latest acquisition signals a more aggressive phase of fleet scaling, backed by state support and international partnerships.
The government maintains that the investment aligns with broader national development goals, particularly infrastructure growth and economic integration within the region.