Kigali, 9^th August 2017- H.E. Paul Kagame has laid a foundation stone to officially flag off construction of Bugesera International Airport (BIA), in Rilima Sector, Bugesera District, Eastern Province. Government officials and partners were gathered to witness the ground breaking ceremony

Speaking at the event, President Paul KAGAME said “I am pleased to join you today to break ground for this important national project. We are as determined as you are to see this airport completed and operational,” adding that “Bugesera International Airport will not only support Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation but also facilitate economic integration of the East African Community and boost intra-Africa trade”.

According to President KAGAME, the new airport facility will serve to complement the growth of the national carrier RwandAir as well as improve access to the country by people from across the world.

KAGAME assured Mota-Engil Africa of Government’s support in undertaking the project.  “I wish to assure you of our Government commitment, support and partnership to see this airport completed and operational. You can count on the Government to ensure that all the services and utilities required for the airport are ready in good time”. He said.

Paul KAGAME promised Rwandans that the project will be delivered as committed and that it will meet the highest standards to ensure that it competes favorably with other airports across the world.

The construction works have been planned in phases for a total budget of $765 million. The first phase is estimated to take about 27 months and end by 2019 at a cost of about $400 million. At starting of operation the airport will be able to accommodate about 1.8 million passengers per year.  

According to Antonio Mota, the Chairman of Mota-Engil Africa - Portugal Firm, the project will be completed within the agreed time.

In addition to a 3,750 meters runway, a modern terminal building, a presidential terminal, office buildings for stakeholders, and all necessary infrastructures for operation, the airport will be equipped with some of the latest features for cargo handling, aircrafts maintenance, catering services, etc.

Hon. James MUSONI, the Minister of Infrastructure, indicated that the project is expected to have several impacts including 6,000 jobs creation for Rwandans, business opportunities and utilities rollout.

In addition to this, Minister MUSONI noted that, the government will also set up an airport city serving the airport which is further expected to boost economic activity in the region.

The construction of a new airport is aligned with the Vision 2020 and the EDPRS. The Project will have a high impact on the socio-economic development of Rwanda in general and on the positioning of our country as a regional hub.