Uganda is planning to develop a major international airport in Mbarara. It is a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project expected to strengthen the country’s position as a regional logistics, aviation and trade hub.
The proposed Nyakisharara International Airport is backed by President Yoweri Museveni, and is currently in its feasibility and planning stages, that involves negotiations between the government and ongoing project developers.
Reportedly, the proposed airport will be located in Nyakisharara, Mbarara City, in Western Uganda. According to the preliminary plans, the facility will feature two 5.5-kilometre runways which is designed to accommodate large commercial aircraft, as well as a separate 3.7-kilometre runway reserved for VIP operations.
If completed as envisioned, the airport is expected to surpass Entebbe International Airport in size, which will make it one of the largest aviation infrastructure projects in the country. The government envisions the airport serving as a strategic logistics and aircraft refuelling hub, that links trade routes between China and Brazil.
Uganda is set build a major international airport in Mbarara.
The airport will have a 5.5km runway and another 3.5km runway for exclusive VIP use. pic.twitter.com/VVd1IpkyAM
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) June 26, 2026
The project is also expected to enhance regional connectivity while supporting the growth of Western Uganda’s agriculture, tourism and logistics sectors by improving access to international markets. Development of the airport is being spearheaded by a Chinese consortium comprising Hunan Construction and Investment Engineering Group, China Southwest Architectural Design and Research Institute, and Base 7 Aviation International Academy.
Financing for the project is planned through Blackrock Uwekeza, i.e. subject to the successful completion of negotiations and project approvals. Officials have welcomed the investment proposal and describe it as part of Uganda’s broader strategy to expand its transport infrastructure and promote economic development.
However, authorities have emphasised that the project remains at an early stage, with feasibility studies, technical assessments and planning processes that are still underway. The government has not announced a construction start date or project completion timeline.
As per the authorities, final decisions will depend on the outcome of ongoing negotiations, regulatory approvals and financial arrangements. Nyakisharara International Airport aims to significantly transform Western Uganda’s economic landscape by improving international connectivity, facilitating trade and attracting new investment to the region while reinforcing Uganda’s long-term infrastructure development ambitions.