Ugandans Criticize Entebbe Airport’s New Karibuni Lounge as Uninspired and Mediocre

The newly launched Karibuni Lounge at Entebbe International Airport has become the center of a heated national debate, with Ugandans taking to social media to express their disappointment over its design. Described as bland and uninspired, the lounge has drawn comparisons to low-budget hotel lobbies and local shopping malls, raising questions about Uganda’s commitment to quality in public infrastructure.

Unveiled as part of broader upgrades at the airport, the Karibuni Lounge was intended to improve service delivery and accommodate increasing passenger traffic. However, photos shared widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) reveal a space dominated by blue carpeting, bright orange and red armchairs, and open-plan seating—a look that has failed to impress. Critics argue that the design falls short of representing Uganda’s primary aviation gateway to the world.

Prominent voices, including BBC journalist Alan Kasujja, have joined the chorus of disapproval. Kasujja labeled the lounge “bland, tasteless, perfunctory, and unambitious,” suggesting it reflects a broader acceptance of mediocrity in the country. Others, like social media user Ronnie Mitala, compared it to the reception areas of budget hotels in Kampala, questioning its intended identity.

Despite the backlash, some have defended the lounge. Commentator Norah Owaraga dismissed the criticism as “elitist bashing,” emphasizing that the space meets the practical needs of ordinary travelers. She also highlighted the potential economic benefits if the furniture was locally sourced, supporting small Ugandan businesses. Supporters praised the lounge’s spaciousness and functionality, arguing that it serves its purpose even if it doesn’t cater to high-end tastes.

The Karibuni Lounge, developed by Jamani Investment Ltd under the supervision of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), was completed in mid-2025 as part of a larger airport renovation project. The upgrade includes a new terminal and infrastructure to accommodate double-decker aircraft, according to Minister of Works and Transport Gen Katumba Wamala.

As the controversy grows, the UCAA has remained silent, leaving many to wonder how the Authority will address the criticism. The debate has also highlighted contrasting reactions to other recent projects, such as the Hoima City Stadium VIP Lounge, which has been lauded for its modern, minimalist design.

Beyond aesthetics, the discussion has tapped into deeper frustrations about the execution of public projects in Uganda. For critics, the Karibuni Lounge symbolizes a pattern of settling for less, while defenders see the backlash as disconnected from the realities of average travelers. Whether the UCAA responds with justification, revisions, or silence, the lounge has already become a reflection of national expectations and aspirations.