Fred Byamukama, the minister of state for transport commissioned a $9.5m (about sh36.5b) new modernised and automated technology installed at Entebbe airport by the Korea International Corporation (KOICA). 

The project which started in 2016, has seen the installation of systems and facilities that will enable real-time collection of information, improved airport operations and reliable sharing of Air traffic services flight messages among others.

Officials from the Korean government, UCAA and the ministry of works while commissioning the automated and modernised infrastructure at Entebbe airport.

According to Byamukama, embracing modern technologies reduces human interference and error, which is key to enhancing safety. 

He further noted that automation of air navigation systems also enhances information sharing and coordination with pilots, and other airports as well as fulfilling compliance with international provisions.

"The government of Uganda attaches a lot of importance to the aviation industry because it guarantees the country's direct international access thereby promoting trade, tourism and socio-economic development," Byamukama stated.

Officials from the ministry of transport led by the state minister Fred Byamukama and those from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority led by the board chairperson Steven Kavuma plus the ambassador of Korea to Uganda Park Sung-Soo while commissioning the automated technology at Entebbe airport.

The project also considered and implemented an Air traffic control Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system with the installation of long-range cameras along the two runways of the airport and covering what was hitherto, blind spots for air traffic controllers.

Fred Bamwesigye, the director general for Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) said, the $9.5m grant from the Korean government, was co-funded by UCAA with $250,000 (sh960m) per year. 

"It was a worthwhile investment," noted Bamwesigye.

Steven Kavuma, the UCAA board chairman said, the automated and modernised aeronautical infrastructure will enhance efficiency and effectiveness in communication to all industry stakeholders and ensure a better passenger experience through Entebbe airport. 

"Besides this automation project, several other interventions are being undertaken by the government to provide a conducive environment for the users of Entebbe airport," added Kavuma.

Park Sung-Soo, the ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Uganda pledged to spur the relationship between the two countries "beyond just development cooperation and expand it to sustainable and mutually beneficial economic cooperation such as investment and trade." 

The ambassador revealed that the Korean president is planning to host a special Korean-African summit in 2024, aimed at opening a new chapter in Korea-African relations.

Other projects

With a loan of $200m, UCAA is implementing an upgrade and expansion of Entebbe airport, a project that has seen the completion of 100,000 tons capacity cargo centre, strengthening of runway 17/35 plus its associated taxiways is complete and the same applies to runway 12/30 plus all associated taxiways. 

A new terminal building is being constructed under the first phase of the project.

Passenger traffic increases

Passenger traffic going through Entebbe airport has continued to grow as the aviation industry recovers from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Last month (August), a total of 156,081 passengers were recorded, out of whom, 73,899 were arrivals and 82,189 departures translating into an average of 5,034 passengers per day compared to 4,892 in July, 4,508 in June and about 4,000 in May.

Government mooted the idea of expanding the airport into a modern aviation hub as it sought to take advantage of fledgling tourism and export markets in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

The UCAA 2034 master plan predicts that travel between Uganda and the rest of the world will grow rapidly over the next five years, requiring better infrastructure to make Entebbe the regional tourism and logistics hub.