Uganda Airlines has announced that it will start operating daily flights between Kigali, Rwanda, and Entebbe, Uganda, starting November 18, 2026. The launch was announced at an event held at Kigali Serena Hotel on November 12, 2026, attended by representatives from the tourism sector, travel agents, the Ugandan Ambassador to Rwanda, and other stakeholders. This new route is expected to enhance connectivity between the two countries and promote tourism and business.

The launch of the Kigali-Entebbe route is seen as a significant step in strengthening ties between Rwanda and Uganda, two countries that share a rich history, culture, and economic interests. According to Michael Bulwaka, Counselor at the Ugandan Embassy in Rwanda, the two countries have a strong relationship based on shared interests, cultural ties, and a common desire for development. The new flight route is expected to facilitate travel between the two countries, promoting business, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

The daily flights between Kigali and Entebbe are expected to provide travelers with more options for travel between Rwanda and Uganda, whether for business, tourism, education, government work, or visiting family and friends. Passengers will also be able to connect to other destinations in Uganda and beyond through Entebbe International Airport. Uganda Airlines currently operates flights to over 18 destinations worldwide, including London, Dubai, Mumbai, Lagos, Johannesburg, Nairobi, Zanzibar, and Accra.

The new route is also expected to benefit Rwanda's tourism sector, with Nadia Keza, CEO of the Rwanda Tour and Travel Association, noting that the partnership presents a significant opportunity for Rwandan tourism operators to expand their services and reach new markets. The daily flights will enable travel agents to create new packages and offer more competitive services to their clients.

Shakila Rahim Lamar, Acting CEO of Uganda Airlines, said that the airline is committed to expanding its network and increasing its capacity to meet growing demand. The launch of the Kigali-Entebbe route is part of the airline's strategy to enhance connectivity within Africa and provide more travel options for passengers. The airline plans to continue adding new destinations and frequencies to its network.

The relationship between Rwanda and Uganda is built on strong economic, cultural, and social ties. The two countries have a long history of cooperation, and the launch of the new flight route is expected to further strengthen their bilateral relations. The daily flights will not only promote tourism and business but also facilitate people-to-people exchanges and cultural exchange.

The launch of the Kigali-Entebbe route marks a significant milestone in the development of air transport between Rwanda and Uganda. With the new daily flights, Uganda Airlines is poised to play a key role in promoting economic integration and cooperation between the two countries. The airline's commitment to expanding its network and improving connectivity within Africa is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economic development.

Key points

  • Daily flights between Kigali and Entebbe to start November 18, 2026
  • New route expected to promote tourism, business, and people-to-people exchanges between Rwanda and Uganda
  • Uganda Airlines to operate flights to over 18 destinations worldwide, including major hubs in Africa and beyond

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.