By Eumu Emmanuel
Lira City, Uganda, is advocating for the construction of an international airport at Anai, a strategic location that holds immense potential for regional and international connectivity. The Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UNCCI) – Lango Chapter has submitted a proposal to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), highlighting the airport’s historical significance, economic potential, and alignment with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV).
The proposed airport will facilitate the export of high-value agricultural and manufactured goods, reducing transport costs and opening up international markets for local businesses. This will not only boost tax revenues but also provide Northern Uganda with access to modern air transport infrastructure, bridging economic disparities and promoting balanced regional growth.
The airport is expected to integrate Lira City into East Africa’s trade and logistics networks, enhancing competitiveness and reducing travel costs for businesses and investors. Additionally, improved air connectivity will attract domestic and international visitors, boosting the local hospitality and tourism industries.
The construction and operation of the airport will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, uplifting household incomes, reducing poverty, and improving livelihoods across the region. The UNCCI-Lango Region has urged UCAA to prioritize the Anai Airport project and initiate a feasibility study to assess its technical, financial, and environmental viability.
All eyes are now on UCAA and the government’s response to this ambitious and transformative proposal, which promises to unlock Lira City’s full economic potential and significantly contribute to Uganda’s long-term development agenda.
