Finance Minister, Matia Kasaija is optimistic that improved air connectivity between Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe will support a vibrant travel market that facilitates better business, trade and tourism linkages.
Kasaija made the remarks today while launching Uganda Airlines’ maiden flight to Lusaka and Harare on UR 720 (15th and 16th destinations).
The new routes to Harare and Lusaka will be operating four times a week to improve connectivity between East and Southern Africa, providing shorter travel times without long layovers. Using the advanced CRJ 900-LR aircraft, the airline promises safe, affordable, and reliable service.
Kasaija said the revival of the national carrier was partly premised on the belief that it formed a vital part of strategic infrastructure.
“Please accept our belated 5th birthday wishes from me and my colleagues at the Ministry of Finance,” said kasaija.
He said the growth of Uganda Airlines has been possible because of Gov’t commitment to the project as well as a dedicated & focused Management team with effective oversight by the Board.
Kasaija said, “Zambia and Zimbabwe hold special significance to Uganda for two reasons. First, because of their role in the struggle for African emancipation from colonial dominance and secondly, they are some of the few countries that, right from their independence, have maintained visa-free access for Ugandans and vice versa.”
However, trade between Uganda and Zambia is still below potential. The combined value of trade between the two countries was USD 58.5 million in 2021 with the balance in favour of Zambia whose exports to Uganda were valued at USD 47.8 million.
