Uganda Airlines Inaugurates Mumbai Flight Route, Strengthening Diplomatic Relations with India
The Uganda-India Business Forum convened distinguished representatives from both the Ugandan Government and the Indian community, coming together to celebrate the imminent inauguration of Uganda Airlines’ Mumbai route. This eagerly anticipated route is poised to embark on its inaugural flight on October 7, 2023, drawing accolades from Gen. Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, who deemed its timing impeccable.
Speaking at the Serena Hotel in Kampala during the forum, Gen. Katumba commended the airline’s progress, characterizing the Mumbai route as a pivotal “bridge” linking Uganda and India. He underscored its potential to benefit various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, textiles, fruits, vegetables, coffee, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.
Gen. Katumba also disclosed the government’s unwavering commitment to expanding connectivity, promising to unveil additional routes by year-end. He appealed to the Indian community for their support in bolstering Uganda Airlines, thus facilitating its growth and network expansion.
Uganda Airlines is slated to operate flights to Mumbai thrice weekly, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Upender Singh Rawat, the High Commissioner of India to Uganda, emphasized that this route would invigorate trade and investment ties between the two nations, particularly benefiting the Indian community in Uganda and Ugandan students pursuing education in India.
Jennifer Bamuturaki, CEO of Uganda Airlines, reassured the Indian community of the new route’s convenience, efficiency, and safety. She expressed gratitude to the UNDP for its invaluable support in organizing the Uganda-India Business Forum.
Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative, underscored the positive influence of the Entebbe-Mumbai route on tourism, trade, and investment prospects between Uganda and India. She emphasized the vital role of cross-border trade in propelling economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation.
Businessman and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Duties, Odrek Rwabogo, exuded excitement about the Mumbai route, foreseeing its potential to bolster tourism, fortify Uganda’s economy, and stimulate youth entrepreneurship.
In summary, the launch of Uganda Airlines’ Mumbai route is poised to usher in a new chapter marked by heightened economic cooperation and cultural exchange between Uganda and India.