The highly anticipated opening of the Kabalega International Airport has been delayed by 15 months, with a new target completion date set for August 2025.
This news comes from Eng. Dr. Michael Nkambo Mugerwa, the General Manager of the Uganda Refinery Holding Company overseeing the Kabalega Industrial Park (KIP) in Kabaale, Hoima.
Dr. Mugerwa announced during the 9th Oil and Gas Convention in Kampala.
The two-day event, held under the theme “The Journey to First Oil in the Face of a Just Energy Transition in Uganda,” brought together industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the nation’s oil and gas sector.
As of June last year, construction works at Kabalega Airport was said to be over 90% and the launch date projected for October 2023.
While the reasons for the delay haven’t been publicly disclosed, a 15-month extension suggests potential challenges encountered during construction.
However, Dr. Mugerwa’s address offered some positive developments. He highlighted the completion of feeder pipelines stretching from the Kingfisher project to the KIP. These pipelines are designed to transport crude oil extracted upstream, playing a vital role in the nation’s oil production infrastructure.
The Kabalega International Airport is envisioned as a critical component of Uganda’s oil industry development strategy. The airport’s operationalization will streamline logistics and enable the efficient transportation of personnel, equipment, and resources required for oil exploration and production activities.
This delay might cause some disruptions to initial plans, but the project holds immense significance for Uganda’s economic future.
The Kabalega Airport is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities, boost commercial activity in the region, and position Uganda as a key player in the East African oil industry.