The Accra and Kigali routes will officially commence in October and November 2026 respectively
Uganda Airlines has announced the addition of Accra, Ghana and Kigali, Rwanda routes, with Government describing this decision as “deliberate and strategic”. This takes the total number of the national carrier’s destinations to 19.
Uganda Airlines will fly daily to Kigali starting November 18, 2026, and four times a week to Accra starting October 27, 2026.
Announcing the new routes at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala on Wednesday, Uganda Airlines Acting Chief Executive Officer, Girma Wake, said the Kigali route will use a CRJ, while a Boeing 787 wide body aircraft will be deployed on the Accra route.
He noted that the route to Kigali is not a competition, noting that routes become viable and cheaper with consistency, which he said benefits both Uganda Airlines and its competitors.
Commenting on the Accra route, Wake said that the route will support the Nigeria route. He said the Nigeria route did not pick up as earlier anticipated. However, with the Accra route, the hope is that the Nigeria route picks up so as to support the carrier’s long-haul flights such as the Entebbe-London route. He also noted that the Accra route exposes Uganda to the English-speaking West African countries.
Speaking as chief guest, Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama said the choice for the new routes was deliberate and strategic.
‘’I stand before you today with great pride to officiate at this historic moment as we mark yet another milestone in our national carrier’s growth and expansion, to announce the addition of two new routes within Africa: to Kigali, Rwanda and Accra, Ghana. Uganda Airlines was revived with a clear mission; to connect Uganda to the world and to serve as a catalyst for trade, tourism, and investment. Each new route we open is a bridge that brings our people closer together, fosters economic opportunities, and enhances Uganda’s presence on the continental stage. The choice of Kigali and Accra is deliberate and strategic,’’ said Byamukama.
He added: “Kigali, our neighbour and partner in the East African Community, represents our commitment to deepening regional ties and facilitating easier movement for business, tourism, and cultural exchange; While Accra, a vibrant hub in West Africa, opens doors for Ugandans to engage fully with the dynamic economies of the region, while also welcoming our brothers and sisters from Ghana to explore the beauty and opportunities Uganda has to offer.’’
According to Byamukama, these routes will not only strengthen bilateral relations, but also contribute to the realisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by making travel and commerce across our continent more accessible and efficient.
“The opportunities created by an expanded route network, from trade and export growth to increased tourism and greater foreign investment, align with Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy under the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV), an agenda to transform Uganda into a modern, prosperous and globally connected economy,” he said, adding: “By strengthening and expanding our aviation sector, we are laying the foundation for accelerated growth across industries, ensuring that Uganda Airlines becomes both a driver and a symbol of our country’s long-term aspirations. As shareholder and custodian of Uganda Airlines, I reaffirm our government’s unwavering support for the airline’s growth. We are committed to ensuring that Uganda Airlines continues to embody excellence, reliability, and national pride.’’
He also revealed that to support the further growth and expansion of the national carrier, the Government of Uganda has recently funded a fleet expansion program.
‘’We have placed an order for 8 brand-new aircraft from Boeing: 4 Midrange Boeing 737s to strengthen regional and continental routes, and 4 Wide-body Boeing 787 Dreamliners to position Uganda Airlines for long-haul intercontinental flights. A further 2 freighters are being ordered to launch dedicated cargo operations, ensuring Uganda plays a bigger role in global trade and logistics,’’ Byamukama said, adding: “This expansion is a testament to our vision of building a modern, competitive airline that diligently serves Ugandans and connects Africa, a driver of economic growth, and Entebbe International Airport as the preferred hub for global travelers.’’
The new aircraft will cost UGX3.6 trillion.
Ghana’s Honorary Consul to Uganda, Kwame Ejalu welcomed Uganda Airlines’ route to Accra.
“This route is going to be more convenient and cost effective,” he said.
He jokingly added: ‘’You will also have the privilege to carry the Black Stars to the AFCON 2027, and carrying the trophy back.’’
Rwanda’s Ambassador to Uganda, Joseph Rutabana, said: “The Kigali route may reduce the cost of ticket, and encourage more people to use air as opposed to land which takes a lot of time.”
