Masindi – Once a vital hub for tourism and air travel, Kisanja Airfield in Masindi District, has become an abandoned relic.
The airfield, located in in Kyamugwera village, Labbongo Sub-county, has been in operation since the 1970s, now serves as little more than a grazing ground for cattle, with overgrown bushes and dilapidated structures marking its decline.
Managed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Kisanja Airfield was once a busy transit point for tourists visiting Murchison Falls National Park.
During the 70s, 80s, and 90s, planes frequently landed here, contributing to the local economy by bringing tourists and providing a market for neighbouring communities.
However, the airfield has been left to deteriorate over the years, with no significant efforts to revive it.
Michael Sunday, a local resident and former employee of the airfield, recalls its bustling past.
"The airfield was busy in the past, especially with tourists. Planes would land here on their way to other destinations, and it was an important market for local goods. Now, it's just a place for cows to graze," he lamented.
Kyamugwera LC1 Chairperson Erifazi Kahigwa expressed frustration over the land’s abandonment and the encroachment of cattle.
He fears that, without government intervention, the land may eventually be claimed by those who use it for grazing.
"I'm tired of chasing people away from this land. Let the government step in and maintain this facility," he said.
Labbongo Sub-county Chairperson James Balikurungi highlighted the missed economic opportunity the airfield’s abandonment represents.
"This was established for a reason. We still have businesses here, so why not revive it to boost tourism?" he argued.
Cosmas Byaruhanga, the Masindi District Chairperson, also voiced his concerns.
He recalled presenting the issue to President Museveni during his recent visit to the district, where the president promised to help revive the airfield.
"He assured me during the PDM tours that the airfield would be revived, but no communication has followed since. I will continue to follow up with his office," Byaruhanga stated.
Vianney Luggya, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s manager for public affairs, confirmed that the airfield is currently dormant.
He explained that the airfield was once leased to a private company for development, but the lease was terminated after the company failed to meet its obligations.
Luggya reassured that the UCAA is actively seeking funds to revive and upgrade the airfield, with the aim of bringing it back into use.
As the years pass, local leaders and residents hope the government will fulfill its promise to revive Kisanja Airfield, preventing further degradation and securing its future as a valuable asset for the region's tourism and economy.