Uganda is expanding its aviation network with the construction of Kidepo International Airport in Karenga District, northeastern Uganda. The airport is expected to improve access to the Karamoja sub-region and make travel to Kidepo Valley National Park easier for both local and international visitors.
Construction officially started in June 2026 following a groundbreaking ceremony led by President Yoweri Museveni. The project is being developed through a partnership between the Government of Uganda and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry from the United Arab Emirates. The airport is estimated to cost more than US$72 million.
Kidepo International Airport is being built in Karenga District close to Kidepo Valley National Park. The area lies in Uganda’s northeastern corner near the borders with Kenya and South Sudan. Although the region is known for its wildlife and cultural heritage, it has remained one of the country’s least accessible destinations because of the long distance from Kampala.
At present, many visitors reach the park by road a journey that can take 10 to 12 hours from Kampala. Others use scheduled or charter flights that land at the existing Kidepo Airstrip. The new airport is expected to provide a faster and more convenient option once it is completed.
The airport has been planned as an international facility with infrastructure that can support passenger and cargo operations. The design includes a 3.6-kilometre asphalt runway allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft than the current airstrip.
Plans also include a passenger terminal covering about 7,408 square metres, a cargo terminal measuring approximately 74,200 square metres, aircraft parking aprons, taxiways, an air traffic control tower, security and immigration facilities and aircraft rescue and firefighting services. These facilities are intended to meet international aviation standards while supporting future growth in tourism, trade and transport.
Airport to tourism in Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Uganda’s most remote protected areas. The park is known for its open savannah, mountain scenery, and wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more than 470 recorded bird species.
Despite its attractions, the park receives fewer visitors than some of Uganda’s other national parks because of the time needed to reach it. The construction of Kidepo International Airport is expected to improve accessibility, making it easier for travellers with limited time to include Kidepo in their safari plans.
Better air access may also encourage investment in accommodation, tour operations and other tourism services in the surrounding region.
Apart from tourism, the airport is expected to contribute to economic development in the Karamoja sub-region. Improved transport links can support trade, simplify cargo movement and create opportunities for businesses that rely on faster connections.
The project is also expected to create employment during construction and later through airport operations, transport services, hospitality and other related sectors. Improved infrastructure may encourage further investment in roads, accommodation and public services around the airport.
Because of its location near Uganda’s borders with Kenya and South Sudan, the airport may also strengthen regional trade and connectivity in East Africa.
Difference between Kidepo International Airport and Kidepo Airstrip
Kidepo Airstrip currently serves domestic scheduled and charter flights using smaller aircraft. It has supported tourism to Kidepo Valley National Park for many years.
Kidepo International Airport is a separate development. It is being built as a larger international facility with modern passenger and cargo infrastructure. Once completed, it is expected to become Uganda’s third international airport joining Entebbe International Airport and Kabalega International Airport.
