Construction of Kabalega International Airport in Hoima district faces a significant delay as the contractor, SBC, requests an extension of more than fifteen months to complete the project.
Initially scheduled for completion in October of the current year, SBC, a joint venture of Israeli-British firms Shikun and Binui International-SBI/Colas Limited, now seeks additional time to finish crucial tasks. Amos Muriisa, SBC’s Communications Manager, cited the need to complete essential works such as constructing the control tower, installing electricity, CCTV cameras, fiber optic cables, and other airport operations.
Muriisa explained that a change in the design of the control tower from mobile to fixed significantly impacted construction progress, leading to delays. He further stated that an additional 160 billion Shillings is required to complete the remaining tasks.
Dr. Micheal Mugerwa, the Oil Refinery General Manager, confirmed ongoing negotiations with the government to secure additional funding for the remaining works. These negotiations aim to expedite the completion of Kabalega Airport within the requested fifteen-month extension.
Construction of the airport, financed by Standard Chartered Bank with a budget of USD 309 million, commenced in April 2018. It serves as a vital support infrastructure for the upcoming commercial oil production activities.
Once operational, Kabalega International Airport will accommodate four cargo planes simultaneously. Its facilities include a fire station, apron, control tower, accommodation facilities, parallel runways, taxiway, air rescue firefighting house, power substation house, communications and navigation systems, perimeter fence, and air-ground illumination system. The nearly complete 3.5-kilometer-long runway is a significant feature of the airport.
In February 2023, construction halted due to a funding shortfall, leading to disputes between the contractor and the government. Allegations of exaggerated material prices and potential collusion with government officials surfaced, prompting investigations.
State Minister for Works Fred Byamukama expressed concerns about possible mismanagement of funds and threatened contract termination if negotiations failed. However, construction resumed in April 2023 after reaching an agreement between the contractor and the government.
Despite progress, completion of Kabalega Airport faces uncertainty as negotiations continue, emphasizing the importance of effective collaboration to overcome challenges and expedite project delivery.
