Taking off The Ugandan Civil Aviation Authority is actively seeking funding to finance an extensive upgrade of three regional airports in a bid to boost trade. The first phase of construction at the Arua, Gulu and Kasese hubs in Uganda’s north and western regions is expected to cost an estimated US$162 million, the Daily Monitor reports. Improvements at Arua involve a new runway, taxiways and apron; a control tower; fire station and administration block at an estimated cost of US$56 million. At Kasese, the project includes lengthening the runway to 2 500m, widening it to 45m and converting it to tarmac at a cost of US$53 million. Also requiring US$53 million, Gulu airfield will be expanded and receive a new fire truck. In addition, a portable airfield ground lighting system will be implemented at the Soroti District site, following remedial repairs to the airfield. 16 July 2019 Image: Gallo/Getty Images