The highly anticipated Kabalega International Airport, located in Hoima district, will finally open its doors to the public in October 2023, according to an announcement made by Amos Muriisa, the public relations officer of SBC Uganda Limited, the contractor overseeing the airport’s development.
Originally scheduled to commence construction in April 2018 and be completed by February 2023, the project encountered delays due to adverse weather conditions and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which necessitated the extension of the completion timeline.
Stringent adherence to Covid-19 standard operating procedures, particularly social distancing measures, led to a reduction in the workforce at the construction site, consequently lengthening the time required to complete various tasks. As of now, phase one of the project has reached an impressive 91.75 percent completion.
Compounding the delays, disputes arose between the government and the contractor regarding unpaid arrears, further impeding the project’s progress. Phase two, which carries an estimated cost of €40 million, will encompass the establishment of an air control tower, a fuel firm, and 20 accommodation units for airport staff.
To manage operations at Kabalega International Airport during this interim period, technicians have proposed utilizing the air control tower at Entebbe. Meanwhile, the government will be tasked with sourcing funds to complete phase two. As the primary focus lies on cargo operations, the airport terminal will have the capacity to accommodate up to 50 individuals during peak hours.
The establishment of the airport within the Kabalega industrial park is expected to streamline the delivery of equipment for the refinery. However, uncertainties persist regarding the ability of joint venture partners to secure the necessary $4.5 billion for the refinery’s construction.
Muriisa acknowledged that although the bill of quantities for the projects was initially prepared in 2016, actual construction did not commence until 2018, during which time commodity prices experienced a significant increase. Initially, the government exhibited hesitation in addressing the contractor’s outstanding payments. However, through negotiations, a partial payment was made, and work on the project resumed.
With the revised opening date set for October 2023, stakeholders and the public eagerly await the completion of the Kabalega International Airport, which promises to facilitate improved connectivity and bolster economic growth in the region.
Would you like to get published on this Website? You can now email Uganda Times: an Opinion, any breaking news, Exposes, story ideas, human interest, articles, or any interesting videos: news@ugandatimes.ug. Or join the Ugandatimes WhatsApp Group or Telegram Channel for the latest updates
