Kakamega Airstrip All Set To Begin Operations
Days after being formally opened by President William Ruto, the Kakamega airstrip is scheduled to begin full flight operations on Wednesday, December 14.
Lydia Kadima 
The Kakamega Airstrip's freshly renovated Runway, Taxiway, and enlarged Apron, which underwent rehabilitation work at a cost of Sh174.7 million, were officially opened by the president on Thursday of last week.
The Kenya Airports Authority carried out the operation (KAA) and today also marks the airstrips inaugural flight.
Following the repair work, the airstrip's pavements can now support Code C aircraft, including the Q300, Fokker 50, and CRJ, in accordance with ICAO regulations.
According to stakeholders, the Kakamega Airstrip's extension and subsequent renovation will be a crucial enabler for the County's economic development.
The airstrip, according to Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, will significantly contribute to the reduction of traffic at Kisumu International Airport.
The airstrip can now accommodate both cargo and passenger aircraft due to the airstrip's improved condition and renovation to international standards.
The governor pointed out that the airstrip's recent upgrading creates the conditions for integration into the global economy and establishes the foundation for crucial connectivity on a local, regional, and global level.
He asserted the importance of flights using the airport to the growth of trade, tourism, and employment possibilities.
“Kakamega is going big and we are glad for such opportunities that obviously impact positively on our economy, “said the governor.
He urged the residents of the communities near the airstrip to work with the county government in giving enough land for the airstrip's extension, which will, in his view, have a favorable impact on the Lake Region Economic Block.
