Opportunities in Uganda Infrastructure
The Ugandan Government has placed a strong emphasis on infrastructure development in recent years. This investment has significantly improved productivity by enhancing connectivity and streamlining the movement of goods and services.
Currently, infrastructure funding accounts for about 32.8% of the government’s total annual expenditure.
Road Transport
The road network in Uganda includes national, city, district, urban, and community access roads. In line with the government’s goal of commencing commercial oil production by 2020, construction is underway on three oil roads totalling 363km out of 600km. This will support the development of an oil and gas industrial park in western Uganda and encourage the establishment of new businesses.
Railway Transport
The government is dedicated to upgrading the national railway system to the standard gauge (1,435mm) from the meter gauge rail (1,067mm) as it is considered the most cost-effective means of transport.
Air Transport
Uganda’s air transport system is served by 47 aerodromes, with 14 owned and operated by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), including the main international entry and exit point, Entebbe International Airport. Five other airports have been designated as international entry/exit points to promote trade and tourism. Additionally, the government has revived the national airline, Uganda Airlines, and is developing Kabale International Airport to support the oil sector in western Uganda.
Inland Water Transport
Water transport is a fast and cost-effective mode of transport in Uganda, with 18 inland water ports mainly located on Lake Victoria. The government is increasing investment in water transport infrastructure to enhance passenger and cargo traffic, especially for tourism and regional trade activities.
Energy Infrastructure
Uganda’s total electricity generation capacity is currently 1,200MW, with 17 hydro and solar power projects under construction to add 800MW to the national grid. The government is also expanding the electricity transmission network by adding 726.3km of transmission lines.
ICT Infrastructure
Uganda’s National Backbone Infrastructure project aims to connect major towns to an optical fibre network and link government entities to the e-Government Network. The fibre optic cables laid by the government and private sector span 5,110km across the country, providing seamless connections. Additionally, 4G technologies have been introduced to improve internet speeds and promote e-commerce for economic growth and efficiency.
