By Juma Nsubuga
The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has signed an agreement with Tristar Energy Limited a division of the UAE-based Tristar Group, for operating a newly constructed fuel storage facility and fuel hydrant pipeline system at Entebbe International Airport.
According to the UCCA manager in charge of Public Affairs Vianney Mpuugu Luggya, Tristar Energy Limited has already constructed 12 million litres of fuel storage tanks and laid an underground fuel pipeline to supply fuel directly to aircraft.
Luggya confirmed to The Inspector that this newly built facility provides additional fuel storage at the airport to enhance safety, and facilitates quicker aircraft turnaround, benefiting the Ugandan people and fostering regional development.
“It is also expected to support the increasing number of operators at the airport” Luggya added.
He further stated that Tristar Energy Limited has future expansion plans to address long-term demand.
“Once fully completed, the Fuel Farm will boast a 22 million-litre storage capacity and a 7-kilometre fuel hydrant pipeline with 43 hydrant pits, covering the entire airport” Luggya stressed.
The storage facility and fuel hydrant pipeline according to Luggya have been constructed to meet the latest industry standards, including a leak detection system and a 24/7 control and monitoring system.
The agreement-signing ceremony was chaired by the Director General of UCAA Fred Bamwesigye while Eugene Mayne signed on behalf of Tristar Energy Limited.
The event was attended by other senior management staff and legal counsels from both sides.
Meanwhile, UCAA director General Fred Bamwesigye acknowledged the efforts of both parties and expressed optimism that the agreement and long-term collaboration would enhance airport infrastructure and boost airline passenger growth at Entebbe International Airport.
The Chief Executive Officer of Tristar Energy Limited Eugene Mayne thanked UCAA for its support and leadership.
Eugene highlighted Tristar’s commitment to adhering to the highest standards and safety benchmarks and assured that Tristar would establish world-class fuel handling services at the airport.
This infrastructure will be operated under a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement between Tristar Energy Limited and UCAA, aligning with the ongoing Entebbe International Airport expansion programme.
