Uganda Airlines has signed a landmark agreement with Boeing for the acquisition of 10 new aircraft, a move expected to strengthen the national carrier's capacity and enhance Uganda's connectivity to regional and international markets.

The agreement was witnessed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during a ceremony held at State House Entebbe on Wednesday.

According to information released following the signing, the fleet expansion will include both passenger and cargo aircraft, supporting Uganda's ambitions to boost trade, tourism, investment and cargo transportation while positioning the country as a key regional aviation hub.

The agreement was signed by Uganda Airlines Acting Chief Executive Officer Girma Wake on behalf of the national carrier and Boeing Executive Vice President and Head of Sales for Africa, Anbessie Yitbarek, on behalf of the aircraft manufacturer.

Officials said the acquisition covers 10 aircraft, comprising eight passenger aircraft and two freighters, which will strengthen Uganda Airlines' ability to serve regional, continental and long-haul routes.

Government officials have described the acquisition as a strategic investment aimed at improving direct connectivity between Uganda and major global markets, reducing reliance on foreign transit hubs and supporting economic growth.

The signing ceremony brought together several senior government officials and stakeholders from the aviation sector. Among those present were Finance Minister Henry Musasizi, Works and Transport Minister Fred Byamukama, former Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala, former Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Transport Waiswa Bageya, and Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury Ramathan Ggoobi.

Also in attendance were Uganda Airlines Board Chairperson Priscilla Mirembe Sseruka, members of the Uganda Airlines Board, Boeing Commercial Sales and Marketing Africa representative Herb Wallen, and United States Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mikael Cleverley.

The agreement comes as government continues to invest in aviation infrastructure, including the expansion of Entebbe International Airport and the development of Kabalega International Airport, projects expected to support the country's long-term aviation growth.

Uganda Airlines said the additional aircraft will increase its operational capacity and strengthen its ability to support tourism, trade, investment and cargo movement.

The fleet expansion marks a significant milestone for Uganda's aviation sector and reflects the government's commitment to improving the country's direct access to global markets through a stronger national carrier.