Kololo Airstrip

The primary reason for its closure was functional obsolescence. The larger and more modern Entebbe International Airport (HUEN/EBB), which opened for civilian operations in 1951, was better equipped to handle the larger aircraft and increasing traffic of the post-war era. Kololo's short runway and central urban location made it unsuitable for expansion. The site was then strategically repurposed by the government to serve as a national ceremonial ground.

The site is now known as the Kololo Independence Grounds or Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. It is Uganda's principal venue for all major national events, including Independence Day parades, Heroes' Day celebrations, and military displays. The original grass runway has been replaced by a large, paved parade ground, and the area has been extensively developed with permanent pavilions, a grandstand, and public facilities to accommodate large crowds and state functions.

During its operational years in the British colonial era, Kololo Airstrip served as Kampala's first primary airfield. It handled light passenger aircraft, mail services, and administrative flights, connecting the capital with other parts of the protectorate and the region. Its most profound historical significance, however, comes from its post-closure role. It was on this ground that the Union Jack was lowered and the Ugandan flag was raised for the first time on October 9, 1962, marking the nation's independence from British rule. It has since been the site for numerous presidential inaugurations, state funerals, and two papal visits (Pope Paul VI in 1969 and Pope Francis in 2015).

There are zero prospects for reopening Kololo as an airport. Its location is now in the heart of a densely populated, upscale urban area, making any aviation activity impractical and unsafe by modern standards. Furthermore, its status as a hallowed national monument and the primary ceremonial ground for the Republic of Uganda has permanently cemented its non-aviation role.