Museveni Announces Game-Changing New International Airports in Kigezi and Mbarara as Uganda Celebrates 45 Years of Tarehe Sita

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other security agencies for their exemplary role in maintaining peace and stability during the recent general elections, which facilitated a secure democratic process. Speaking at the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary commemoration in Kabale Municipality, the President emphasized that their efforts have not only safeguarded the nation but have also laid the groundwork for accelerated socio-economic transformation. This includes significant infrastructure developments, such as new and expanded airports in the southwestern region.

The event, held at the National Teachers’ College (NTC) grounds under the theme “Defending the Gains of the Revolution and Honouring the Sacrifices of the Freedom Fighters: A Call for National Unity, Peace, and Socio-Economic Transformation,” marked the historic launch of Uganda’s Liberation War on February 6, 1981. On that day, 43 National Resistance Army patriots, armed with only 27 rifles, attacked Kabamba barracks, sparking the revolutionary path that has shaped modern Uganda.

President Museveni, accompanied by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Museveni, praised the security forces for neutralizing attempts to disrupt the elections. “I want to salute the UPDF and other security forces for the robust security they provided during the recent elections. They did a commendable job,” he stated. He noted that their quick responses thwarted troublemakers, allowing Ugandans to conduct successful and peaceful polls. The President also extended special thanks to the people of Kigezi and the nation for their overwhelming support of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) during the elections.

In a forward-looking address, Museveni linked the revolutionary legacy of Tarehe Sita to Uganda’s current progress toward becoming a high middle-income country. He emphasized the importance of national unity and wealth creation, assuring residents of Kigezi that the region stands to benefit significantly from tourism, commercial agriculture, and manufacturing.

Central to his vision for the region’s future is a bold initiative to improve aviation infrastructure to unlock economic potential. The President confirmed that Kisoro Airport is currently being expanded to better serve visitors to the area’s renowned attractions. He also announced plans for an additional international airport in the Kigezi sub-region, specifically noting land offered by businessman Amos Nzeyi in Kabale District, dedicated to enhancing tourism. This new facility aims to facilitate direct flights for tourists, eliminating the need for long road journeys from Entebbe.

Furthermore, Museveni revealed ambitious plans for a major new international airport in Mbarara City, focused on trade and business. He described this project as a game-changer that would surpass Entebbe International Airport in scale and capacity, enabling direct links particularly with partners in East Asia (such as China) and South America (including Brazil and Argentina). With partnerships already in discussion, this development positions southwestern Uganda as a strategic hub for international commerce, reducing travel times and attracting investment.

These airport initiatives signal a transformative phase for Uganda’s economy. By decentralizing air connectivity beyond Entebbe, the government aims to stimulate regional growth, enhance export opportunities in agriculture and minerals, and make tourism more accessible in areas rich in natural wonders like volcanoes, lakes, and national parks.

The ceremony also featured remarks from key figures. Defence Minister Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth congratulated the President on his re-election, while Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba pledged the UPDF’s continued loyalty to advance socio-economic goals and regional security. Gen. Muhoozi affirmed the country’s overall peace, describing the recent elections as the most decisive and trouble-free since 1996.

Awards were presented to distinguished officers for their contributions to liberation and national development, including the inaugural CDF Award for outstanding junior officer Lt. Moses Odongo, who received Shs 10 million and a certificate.

As Uganda commemorates 45 years since the spark of its revolution, President Museveni’s remarks underscore a commitment to building on past sacrifices. With peace secured and infrastructure such as these new airports on the horizon, the focus now shifts to translating stability into prosperity; opening the skies for tourism in Kigezi and trade across the southwest, driving the nation toward its high middle-income ambitions.