KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) — The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority plans interior alterations to the recently opened Karibuni Business Lounge at Entebbe International Airport, responding to public criticism of its design.
The new lounge, unveiled Thursday, was initially hailed by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) as “another important milestone in efforts to enhance the passenger experience,” boasting amenities like baby changing rooms, an infant playroom, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Media outlets described it as state-of-the-art.
However, online commentators quickly condemned the design, citing poor workmanship, a jarring color mix, and uninspired furniture. BBC presenter Alan Kasujja notably called the lounge “bland, tasteless, perfunctory, unambitious,” comparing it to a furniture showroom in a Kampala suburb. The lounge’s appearance drew unfavorable comparisons to modern airport facilities in Dubai, Singapore, and even other East African airports.
Despite the backlash, UCAA acknowledged the public’s response as “constructive feedback.”
“We value the views of users of the facilities and the general public as these help us ensure that the airport facilities and services reflect the expectations and comfort of all,” the authority stated.
UCAA clarified that Karibuni Lounge management, a private concessionaire, was responsible for the interior design and furnishing. However, it pledged to work with the concessionaire to implement improvements.
“As the airport operator, we remain committed to working closely with all our concessionaires and stakeholders to ensure that services and aesthetics meet the high standards our passengers look forward to,” said Vianney Luggya, UCAA’s Manager of Public Affairs. He indicated that changes would likely include modifications to furniture, colors, and other aspects.
“We have seriously taken note of the concerns regarding the furniture colors and layout and pledge to engage the concessionaire to align with and implement the required improvements,” Luggya added, urging the public to remain calm.
While some criticized the aesthetics, governance activist Norah Owaraga defended the lounge, emphasizing its primary goal of increasing seating capacity from 160 to 300 passengers.
“For this purpose, I honestly don’t understand the elitist bashing,” Owaraga said, noting that “it is not intended to be exclusive. It is intended to accommodate a large number of passengers.” She also expressed support if the furniture was locally made by small business owners.
Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister for Works and Transport, who launched the lounge, expressed gratitude for the UCAA’s responsiveness to feedback.
“It is always important to understand and identify the needs of travelers and aim to surpass their expectations,” Katumba Wamala said, highlighting the upgrade as a reflection of Uganda’s readiness to meet evolving international travel needs and position Entebbe as a competitive regional gateway.
UCAA Director General Fred K. Bamwesigye reiterated that the refurbished lounge “reflects our unwavering focus on improving the travel experience, promoting seamless service delivery, and upholding Uganda’s image as a warm and welcoming destination.”
Minister Katumba Wamala also announced that a new multi-billion shilling terminal building would be commissioned soon, with the airport also preparing to receive a new double-decker aircraft.
