Uganda Airlines has launched direct flights between Entebbe and Accra, Ghana, in a move expected to strengthen trade, investment and economic cooperation between East and West Africa.
The new route, which operates four times a week, brings the airline's network to 18 destinations and is expected to reduce travel time between the two countries while providing businesses with easier access to each other's markets.
Uganda's Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, said the direct service would significantly reduce the time passengers previously spent travelling between the two countries through connecting airports.
“Previously we could use about seven to eight hours, or even 10, depending on the country you are transiting through. But now we are going to board a direct flight; we shall use about five hours maximum,” Byamukama said during the launch.
He said the government considered Uganda Airlines a strategic asset in advancing the country's trade and tourism ambitions, emphasising the importance of air connectivity to a landlocked economy seeking stronger international links.
State Minister for Planning Amos Lugoloobi said the new route would help Ugandan products reach West African markets while creating opportunities for investment and tourism.
He identified potential exports to Ghana as coffee, tea, sugar, edible oils, fruits, juices, fresh fish, horticultural products, soap, detergents, cosmetics, steel, plastics and pharmaceuticals.
Lugoloobi urged businesses in both countries to take advantage of the new connection to establish commercial partnerships and expand trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“This new route transforms our shared trade policies into practical realities by directly facilitating the rapid movement of goods, labour and services,” he said.
He added that the route could encourage Ghanaian investors to explore opportunities in Uganda's manufacturing, energy, information and communications technology, healthcare and financial services sectors.
Uganda Airlines Acting Chief Executive Officer Ato Girma Wake said the service was more than an additional destination, describing it as a link that would connect markets and strengthen Entebbe's position as a regional aviation hub.
Uganda Airlines Board Chairperson Priscilla Serukka also described Accra as a strategic connection between East and West Africa, noting that the service would expand travel options for passengers who previously faced lengthy connections.
The airline's expansion comes as it marks its seventh anniversary and works towards an ambition of serving 24 destinations.
Serukka said the airline's growth would require sound governance, prudent resource management and reliable operations, adding that the route's long-term success would depend on passenger demand and customer uptake.
The launch also reflects wider efforts to improve intra-African connectivity and translate continental trade agreements into increased commercial activity.
With direct flights now linking Entebbe and Accra, the route is expected to provide a foundation for stronger business relationships, although its economic impact will depend on how effectively companies in both countries use the connection to expand trade and investment.
Story by: Andre Mustapha Nii Okai Inusah
Popularly Known As: Attractive Mustapha
Email: attractivemustapha@gmail.com
Contact Number 0244259564
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