This archive report was first published on 24 June 2020.
Kitale Airstrip is set to undergo a major upgrade at a cost of Sh221 million to enhance flight operations in the county and neighboring counties.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has awarded a contract to ASAL Engineering and Consult Company to undertake the construction of a standard 2.2km long runway, as well as an administration block.
According to KAA's regional manager Walter Agong, the construction is expected to start next month and be completed by next April.
“We will take 10 months to ensure that the airstrip gets back to its normal activities as soon as possible,” Agong said, adding that the construction would be done in two phases.
The first phase will include the construction of a standard 2.2km runway, while the second phase will see the construction of an administration block that will consist of a VIP lounge.
Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa said the renovation would boost flight operations within the county and the region at large.
“When the construction is completed, the business and transport sector will see a new perspective that will boost the county’s economy,” Wamalwa said.
Local Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Martin Waliaula welcomed the expansion, saying it would market the region.
“The business community supports the expansion of the airstrip. It will create room for more flights to the area and reduce the cost of travelling to Eldoret airport to connect to Nairobi,” Waliaula said.
