The Bukimbiri County Member of Parliament, Hon. Eddie Kwizera Wa-Gahungu, has called on the government to prioritize the expansion of the Nyakabande Aerodrome runway in Kisoro District, emphasizing its potential to enhance air travel and promote tourism in the region.
Speaking at a press briefing held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at the aerodrome, Hon. Kwizera expressed concern over the current runway length, which measures only 1,200 meters well below the international standard of 2,500 meters required for airports serving major tourism destinations.
MP Kwizera noted that the current size only accommodates small aircraft, such as 7-seaters, limiting the number of tourists that can arrive in the area and slowing down tourism growth.
Hon. Kwizera urged the Ministry of Works and Transport to work in collaboration with the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) to secure additional land for the expansion by compensating nearby communities.
   He explained that extending the runway would enable the aerodrome to accommodate larger domestic and international aircraft. The facility serves Kisoro town and provides access to Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks two of Uganda’s leading tourist attractions, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.
Additionally, Hon. Kwizera disclosed that the government plans to level Muganza Hill to allow aircraft to land from the Rwandan side. He praised this initiative, noting that it would significantly improve air transport to and from Kisoro.
The Source Reports.
We come to you.
Want to send us a story or have an opinion to share? Send an email to [email protected] or WhatsApp on +256742996036.
