KAA begins rehabilitation of Kakamega Airstrip, to decongest Kisumu airport
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has started the rehabilitation of Kakamega Airstrip runway to accommodate Code C aircraft.
June 29, 2020: The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has started the rehabilitation of Kakamega Airstrip runway to accommodate Code C aircraft - Q300, Fokker 50, Buffaloes, Embraer 124, CRJ, in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, as per the LinkedIn page of KAA.
Speaking during the media tour of the facility, airport manager Selina Gor of Kisumu International Airport and Western Region Airports said that the upgrading of the Kakamega Airstrip is a part of the major projects which KAA is currently implementing. “Noted that the project will include extension of the existing runway from 1.3 kilometres to 2 kilometres, reconstruction of aircraft parking, patrol roads and perimeter fencing to ensure the security of passengers and aircraft.”
The 38-acre airstrip is being rehabilitated by M/S Halane Construction Limited with works projected to be completed by September 31, 2021. The project is funded by the World Bank in collaboration with the national government, as per STAR.
She exuded confidence on the viability and future prospects of the airstrip noting that the facility is crucial in the county.
The upgrading of Kakamega Airstrip is one of the major projects which KAA is implementing in Western region, fulfilling its mandate of administering, controlling and managing Kenya’s aerodromes.
Kakamega and Migori airstrips will be rehabilitated at Sh174.7 million and Sh243.1 million, respectively.
Migori airstrip (Lichota) is approximately 22 kilometres from the Tanzania-Kenya border and 8.3 kilometres from Migori town. The 12-month work is expected to be completed on June 30, 2021.
Gor said the upgraded airstrips will enhance transport connectivity, boost trade in the region and decongest Kisumu International Airport (KIA) thereby improving the passenger experience.
To facilitate the development of the agricultural industry for food security and growth, KAA has embarked on additional development of the airport. Among the developments underway include cargo facilities which will position KIA as the key export airport for sugar, rice and fresh produce from the great lakes region.
