Govt Provides Update on Airstrip Upgrades Across the Country

The KAA Board and Management have concluded a two-day inspection tour of regional airstrips across the country, reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity in line with national development priorities.

The tour was led by KAA Board Chairman, Caleb Kositany, accompanied by Board Director, Eng. Walter Ogola, and Ag. Managing Director, Dr. Mohamud Gedi, together with members of senior management.

On the second and final day, the team commenced inspections at Migori (Lichota) Airstrip, where they were hosted by Dr. Ochilo George Mbogo Ayacko, Governor of Migori County.

The Board reviewed progress on the construction of a modern passenger terminal building with a projected capacity of up to 500,000 passengers annually, expected to significantly enhance regional and cross-border air connectivity upon completion.

Kakamega & Matulo Airstrip

The inspection tour proceeded to Kakamega Airstrip, where ongoing airside infrastructure upgrades, including runway rehabilitation, taxiways, and apron works, are set to improve operational safety and efficiency.

At Matulo Airstrip in Bungoma County, the KAA delegation engaged with Kenneth Makelo Lusaka, Governor of Bungoma County, and Dan Wanyama, Area Member of Parliament, to assess existing infrastructure and discuss priority interventions, including the construction of a passenger terminal building and land acquisition to facilitate future expansion of the runway.

Also Read: Kenya Airports Authority Gives Update on Expansion of Airstrip

Kitale, Boma & Lanet Airstrip

The team later visited Kitale Airstrip, where assessments focused on improving landside infrastructure such as parking facilities, access roads, and concrete paving to enhance passenger convenience and operational flow.

At Boma Airstrip in Eldoret, hosted by Regional Airport Manager, North Rift, Ms. Angela Tilitei, the Board and Management reviewed the condition of the runway, inspected the recently tarmacked access road, and assessed newly installed solar power systems aimed at promoting sustainable and cost-efficient airport operations.

The final inspection stop was Lanet Airstrip, where the Board reviewed the ongoing multi-phase upgrade project being implemented in collaboration with the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

Also Read: KAA Names 3 Major Upgrades to Transform JKIA

Phase One works, which include upgrading the 1.7-kilometre runway to bitumen standards, construction of taxiways and an apron, drainage works, and installation of service ducts and airfield ground lighting, have recorded significant progress.

Subsequent phases will focus on the development of civilian infrastructure and major expansion works to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to completing the projects within the shortest time possible, emphasizing the strategic role of regional airstrips in enhancing connectivity, supporting tourism and trade, and driving socio-economic development across the country.