Uganda Airlines has launched scheduled direct flights between Entebbe and Accra, Ghana, opening a new air link between East and West Africa aimed at boosting trade, tourism, investment and people-to-people relations.

The national carrier will operate the new service four times a week, providing travellers with more convenient connections between Uganda and Ghana.

The inaugural flight was flagged off on Tuesday by Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, who said the route would strengthen commercial engagement between the two countries and support tourism.

“The Entebbe-Accra service will offer travelers a direct connection between two important commercial centers,” Byamukama said, highlighting the route’s potential to facilitate business and strengthen relations between the two populations.

Visa-free travel strengthens connectivity

Byamukama commended Ghana for allowing holders of all categories of Ugandan passports to enter the country visa-free, saying improved air connectivity should go hand in hand with policies that make cross-border movement easier.

He noted that the new route supports continental integration initiatives, including the Single African Air Transport Market and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seek to improve connectivity and expand trade across Africa.

The direct connection is expected to offer practical benefits to business travellers, traders, tourists and investors who travel between the two countries, while reducing the need to connect through other international hubs.

For Ugandan businesses seeking opportunities in Ghana and other West African markets, the service could also make commercial visits, partnership development and investment exploration more convenient.

Boost for trade and tourism

The Entebbe–Accra route creates another opportunity to deepen economic relations between Uganda and Ghana, two countries seeking to expand intra-African trade and investment.

Improved air links can help tourism operators, hospitality businesses and travel companies reach new customers, while making it easier for visitors to explore destinations in both countries.

The service also strengthens Uganda Airlines’ presence in Africa as the carrier continues to develop its regional and international network.

Byamukama further disclosed that Uganda had placed a firm order for eight Boeing aircraft and was pursuing the acquisition of additional freighter aircraft to strengthen cargo operations.

The planned cargo expansion could support Uganda’s ambitions to improve air-freight capacity for exporters and businesses seeking access to international markets.

Expanding Uganda Airlines’ network

Uganda Airlines already serves several African destinations, including Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Juba, Johannesburg, Lagos and Abuja. Its international network also includes Dubai, Mumbai and London.

The launch of flights to Accra adds another connection between African regions and provides a new option for travellers moving between East and West Africa.

For Uganda, the route is part of a broader effort to use air connectivity to support tourism, trade, investment and stronger economic ties across the continent.