Hoima International Airport, Uganda, Project Update

Colas, with our joint venture partner SBI International Holdings AG, secured the Hoima International Airport Uganda project in May 2017. It comprises full construction of an international airport on land previously used for farming. The extensive scope of works included construction and implementation of runway, taxiway and apron pavements, earthworks and drainage, Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) and navigational aids, employee housing, landside roads, water supply and sewage system and electricity supply.

The land utilised for the development of the refinery and airport is located in the West of Uganda which consists of farmland, shrubs and wetland. The nearest port from which to transport materials involves a 1,700km road journey through mountainous areas.

18-month long earthworks and site clearance activities took place to clear the scrubland. Construction encompasses aircraft operating surfaces including runway, taxiway and apron pavements, in addition to pavement markings in line with international aviation standards. The new Code 4F runway uses an asphalt mix specially designed to suit the environment and climate, and will receive AN-12 4 cargo planes to Boeing 747s. It will be completed in 2023.