Uganda is set to enhance its aviation sector with the acquisition of eight new planes, as reported by Monitor. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, a member of the Dubai royal family and a notable businessman in the UAE, has already delivered one cargo plane, with seven more to follow.
Speaking to journalists upon his arrival at Entebbe International Airport over the weekend, Sheikh Mohammed announced a partnership deal with Uganda Air Cargo (UAC) and the Uganda National Oil Company to build an oil refinery in Hoima, with a processing capacity of 60,000 barrels of oil daily.
“The first plane has arrived, and it will facilitate the export of Ugandan goods abroad. More planes are on the way,” he stated. When asked about his decision to invest in Uganda and the scale of his investment, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted Uganda’s abundant investment opportunities, specifically mentioning his focus on the oil refinery and air cargo sectors.
Robert Mukiza, the executive director of the Uganda Investment Authority, who welcomed Sheikh Mohammed at the airport, noted that the Dubai Prince chose Uganda as the hub for his investments after recognizing significant opportunities in the country. Sheikh Mohammed, along with business partners Mike Douglas and Jaideep Mirchandani, arrived in a private jet to attend the 35th Heroes’ Day celebrations in Gomba District, where the Prince was honored with the Distinguished Honor of the Order of the Crested Crane First Class.
David Fungo Wamai, UAC’s director of finance, confirmed the receipt of a Boeing 737-400 cargo plane, with six more expected following a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Sheikh Mohammed’s company, Alpha MBM, on May 23. “This is a significant development, as we have previously relied on belly cargo to export fresh produce. Ugandan exporters can now export larger volumes at reduced costs,” Wamai said.
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