Construction of Rwanda's $400mn Bugesera airport kicks off

Rwanda is poised to become the regional hub for trade and travel with the commencement of the construction of Bugesera International Airport. This ambitious project, which comes with a price tag of $400 million, is a significant step towards positioning Rwanda as a key player in the aviation sector. The airport, developed in partnership with Portuguese developer Mota Engil, aims to revolutionize the country's aviation industry and meet the growing demand in the region. The airport's first phase will boast modern amenities including cutting-edge cargo handling capabilities, room to accommodate approximately 1.8 million passengers annually, 22 check-in counters, 6 boarding bridges, and multiple commercial spaces. This development puts Rwanda in direct competition with other East African countries like Kenya and Ethiopia, which have a higher number of airports in operation. Rwanda's aviation sector has been on a steady growth trajectory in recent years, with passenger numbers at Kigali International Airport more than doubling from 300,000 in 2008 to over 700,000 last year. The Bugesera International Airport is a strategic response to this increasing demand and is expected to have a significant impact on Rwanda's economic development and its status as a regional service hub. The Bugesera Airport Company, a joint venture involving aviation, travel, logistics, and infrastructure firms ATL and Mota-Engil Africa, will oversee the project's implementation. The project aims not only to build a state-of-the-art airport but also to develop complementary infrastructure such as energy, water, roads, and IT systems to ensure seamless operations once construction is completed. Mota Engil Africa's CEO highlighted the impressive growth projections for the airport, with capacity expected to reach close to 6 million passengers by 2045. The first phase targeting 1.8 million passengers will set the stage for further expansions over the 30-year concession period, culminating in a capacity of 5.7 million passengers. The profitability of the airport is deemed crucial for its long-term sustainability. One of the most significant impacts of the Bugesera International Airport project will be the creation of over 6,000 jobs, benefiting both local residents and foreigners. Additionally, surrounding communities will gain access to clean water, electricity, and high-speed internet connectivity, enhancing their overall quality of life. The first phase of job placements is expected to be completed by December 2019, with international flight operations set to commence shortly thereafter. The funding for the project's first phase, estimated at over $400 million, has already been secured, with the Rwandan government collaborating with investors to ensure a successful outcome. The second phase of financing is anticipated to be less than the initial investment, indicating confidence in the project's viability and long-term success. Rwanda's focus on improving its aviation infrastructure aligns with the country's broader vision of becoming a key player in East Africa's tourism and trade sectors. The Bugesera International Airport is seen as a crucial component in enhancing economic integration within the region, fostering intra-Africa trade, and bolstering investment and business opportunities. With high expectations from the Rwandan government and the public, the Bugesera International Airport project is set to raise the bar for aviation standards in the region. The completion of this state-of-the-art airport will not only elevate Rwanda's status as a key player in the aviation industry but also contribute significantly to the country's overall economic development and strategic positioning.