Upgrading and Interconnecting Transportation Infrastructure
Hon. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, talks to World Business Journal about plans for upgraded and connected transportation and infrastructure, including integrated transport plans for multimodal connectivity, along with rail and air improvements.
How has Uganda progressed in implementing an integrated transport system to enhance regional infrastructure and connectivity, aligning with its Vision 2040?
We play a crucial role in aligning with the Vision 2040 plan by focusing on establishing an integrated transport system with multimodal connectivity. This means ensuring seamless collaboration between different transportation modes such as railways, roads, waterways, and air travel, to create a cohesive and efficient transport network. Transitioning from formerly siloed sectors, we’ve moved to integrated transport infrastructure services, emphasizing the integration of diverse transport elements for improved efficiency and effectiveness.
Uganda acts as a vital transportation hub for Congo, Rwanda, and South Sudan. To address the regional needs of East Africa, our primary focus lies in enhancing our infrastructure. We’ve secured a $301 million investment from the African Development Bank Group to revitalize the Kampala-Malaba Meter Gauge Railway (MGR). This initiative involves rehabilitating a 265km track from Malaba to Mukono, extending to Jinja and Port Bell on Lake Victoria. Despite challenges with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), efforts to refurbish the MGR are underway to bridge the transport gap while discussions on the SGR continue with Yapi Merkezi.
The railway rehabilitation from Malaba to Mukono, in collaboration with CRBC, is progressing. The final segment from Mukono to Kampala, using a Spanish facility, involves installing a new line with locally manufactured concrete sleepers, expected to link Kampala to Port Bell by June 2024.
We’re also focusing on enhancing water transport, particularly through Lake Victoria’s inland waterways, aligning with efforts in Tanzania to improve transport systems from Dar es Salaam through Dodoma to Mwanza. The Kampala Flyover Project’s Phase One (Lot 1) is expected to be commissioned soon. Phase Two (Lot 2), extending from Mukwano into the city center and connecting to the railway, aims to efficiently divert traffic, providing smoother routes for commuters from Entebbe to Jinja and beyond. Designs for Lot Two are finalized, pending financial arrangements, with advanced ongoing discussions to secure support.
As part of our strategic initiatives, we’re also planning the construction of additional expressways to bolster connectivity and create opportunities for increased business activity. By leveraging a public-private partnership (PPP) model, our aim is to attract more investors and catalyze a thriving business ecosystem.
Can you provide an update on the latest developments at Entebbe Airport and in the air transportation sector in Uganda?
The expansion at Entebbe Airport is a response to soaring global demand in the airline industry. We’re currently working on multiple projects, including enlarging the runway and constructing a new terminal, which is about 45% complete and expected to be ready by July 2024. Improvements in arrival and departure lounges are also in progress and are anticipated to be completed by December 2023. Our cargo storage capacity has doubled, meeting international standards and boosting our export capabilities, particularly with fresh produce handling passing EU quality tests.
We’re at 98% completion for Kabaale International Airport in Hoima, awaiting terminal buildings and a control tower for full operation. Initially designed for oil transportation, the airport’s plan has expanded to accommodate the region’s future development, including industrial parks, tourism, and agriculture. Our goal is to transition it into an international airport, offering an alternative within Uganda, especially in case of issues at Entebbe Airport, where the current alternatives are Nairobi or Arusha.
Regarding air transportation development, Ugandan Airlines was established as a facilitator for various sectors of the economy, prioritizing tourism and trade. We’ve recently opened routes to Nigeria and Mumbai, anticipating increased tourist arrivals and expanded exports to these destinations. While we encountered initial challenges, the demand is rising, leading us to plan around three flights per week. Our aim is to transform Entebbe into a regional travel hub, and the upcoming second terminal is designed to enhance passenger comfort and streamline travel transitions. We expect improvements to the transit lounge at the old terminal by March 2024, followed by the completion of the new terminal by July 2024.
We also have plans underway for airstrip construction near tourist hubs like Kasese, Kidepo, and Kisoro, aiming to facilitate direct flights for upscale travelers across East Africa. To attract investors, we are exploring PPPs, especially in high-tourist regions like Kisoro.
How do you plan to improve safety in urban areas?
Enhancing safety in urban areas, especially regarding motorbike taxis (boda bodas), poses a challenge. While the city’s management isn’t entirely under my ministry, we’re advocating for a mass transit solution like light rail or bus rapid transit. Implementing such a system could reduce dependency on boda bodas and smaller vehicles, easing congestion during peak hours.