Museveni launches public-private plan for Kidepo airport to spur tourism and trade
Kidepo, Uganda
President Yoweri Museveni on Oct. 30 unveiled a public-private partnership plan to expand and modernize the airport serving Kidepo Valley National Park — a move officials say is aimed at unlocking high-value tourism inflows and improving regional connectivity.
At a ceremony attended by regional tourism and infrastructure officials, President Museveni announced government plans to invite private investors to upgrade runway capacity, passenger terminal facilities and airside services at Kidepo. State sources said the plan includes incentives to attract private capital and proposed links to road upgrades to cut travel time to the park. The government framed the initiative as part of a broader push to diversify Uganda’s export base through tourism.
Officials cited growing tourist interest in Uganda’s northern parks and pledged that the PPP will be structured to protect community interests, create jobs, and support conservation efforts. Observers note the success of such projects will depend on clear contract terms, community engagement and environmental safeguards.
