Connecting Tourists to Natural Wonders and Driving Economic Growth

Uganda, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, is attracting a growing number of tourists. A significant development enhancing accessibility is the Entebbe–Kampala Expressway, a modern highway connecting the international airport at Entebbe to the capital city, Kampala. This infrastructure project has greatly improved travel for visitors.

The expressway spans over 30 miles, facilitating swift transit between Entebbe, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, and Kampala, a bustling city of over 8.5 million people. Kampala serves as a gateway to Uganda's natural wonders, including numerous lakes, the highlands, and the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The park is a sanctuary for mountain gorillas, drawing eco-tourists eager to witness these magnificent creatures.

Uganda has experienced a notable increase in tourism. In the first half of 2024, the country saw a 26% rise in international visitor arrivals, exceeding 700,000, compared to 558,678 in the previous year. The expressway plays a crucial role in accommodating this influx of tourists.

The construction of the expressway, like many large infrastructure projects in sub-Saharan Africa, involved Chinese expertise and funding. A Chinese firm continues to maintain the road, and a toll system generates revenue. The expressway, Uganda's first toll road, handles approximately 28,000 vehicles daily.

The expressway has significantly improved connectivity between Kampala and Entebbe International Airport. Stephen Kitonsa, Uganda's acting Engineer-in-Chief of the Ministry of Works and Transport, highlighted the road's impact, stating it has set a standard for future projects. Since its completion in 2019, the highway has been utilized by over 30 million motorists, boosting the region's economy and infrastructure.