KAGERA: PLANS are underway for the construction of an International Airport in Kagera Region to be relocated to the Kyabajwa area in Missenyi District, about 35 kilometers from Bukoba Municipality.
Kagera Regional Commissioner, Ms Fatma Mwassa, shared this development during the Regional Consultative Committee (RCC) meeting yesterday.
She added: “The government has granted approval for the construction of a modern International Airport in Kagera Region, to be located in the Kyabajwa area of Missenyi District. This is an important step in boosting the region’s development.”
Ms. Mwassa further noted that the project will begin after completing a feasibility study and detailed architectural designs.
Hence, she urged residents to support the government’s efforts in implementing various development projects across sectors such as education, health, water, and road infrastructure.
The proposed airport is expected to provide a significant boost to the region’s economy by facilitating the export of fresh horticultural products like flowers, avocados, and bananas to international markets, including Japan, China, and other African countries.
However, Ms Mwassa did not disclose the project’s cost or an exact start date for construction.
Commenting, former Regional CCM Chairman, Mr Pius Ngeze, praised President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for making this long-awaited project a reality.
“Kagera residents have been eagerly awaiting the construction of a modern international airport for over 40 years. We thank President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for bringing this dream to life. This is a significant milestone,” he remarked.
ALSO READ: Kagera fetches 92bn/- from revenue collection
Mr Ngeze explained that due to Kagera’s strategic geographical location, the new airport would foster quicker business connections with neighboring countries such as Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and South Sudan.
In 2017, the late former President Dr.John Magufuli had shelved the plan for the Omukajunguti airport in Missenyi District, directing the 9 billion Tanzanian shilling compensation budget toward expanding the Bukoba Airport runway from 1,500 meters to 2,000 meters instead. Established in 1940, Bukoba Airport underwent a significant upgrade in 2008 to accommodate larger aircraft such as the ATR 42.
The new airport is expected to revolutionise the region’s connectivity, opening up new opportunities for trade and tourism.
Celebrate life’s moments with Party Bus Rental Miami. From weddings, proms, and bachelor parties to a Sweet 16 Party Bus Miami, we cater to all. Experience luxury and affordability with Miami Party Bus Services and make every moment count!