By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 25 October 2025 - Kenya is fast-tracking the modernisation of regional airstrips and major airports to strengthen connectivity, facilitate trade, and improve the movement of people and goods nationwide.
Decades of neglect left many facilities in poor condition, with deteriorating runways, and minimal services that constrained regional development.
Under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) and Kenya Vision 2030), President William Ruto's administration is prioritising their rehabilitation, positioning aviation as a key driver of inclusive economic growth.
The Government Delivery Unit (GDU), in partnership with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), has launched a broad programme covering airstrips across the country.
Upgrades include Kabunde, Lichota, Suneka, Malindi, Ukunda, Voi, Ikanga, Lokichoggio, Narok, Kilgoris, Bomet, Kerenga, Lanet, Garissa, Mandera, Elwak, Itugururu, Mitunguu, Nanyuki, Kakamega, Matulo, Busia, and Ithookwe.
KAA has also identified a new site for the proposed Busia Airstrip, with additional expansions at Boma, Aldas, Kanyonyo, Nyaribo, and Elwak.
“These high-impact investments will connect regions, stimulate trade, and help Kenya realize its ambition of becoming a first-class economy by 2050,” said Mr Olando Sitati, who is the Head of GDU.
“For years, many of these airstrips have been in deplorable condition, but the Ruto administration is determined to modernise them, ensuring that every region benefits from efficient and safe air transport.”
The regional upgrades aim to spur local economic activity in tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, while reducing over-reliance on road transport.
Simultaneously, major international airports are undergoing significant modernisation.
At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya’s main aviation hub, a phased development plan extends to 2029, including new passenger boarding bridges by 2026, a second runway by 2027, and a world-class terminal by 2029 to enhance cargo handling and operational efficiency.
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Eldoret International Airport is extending its runway to 3.5 kilometers to accommodate larger aircraft, reinforcing its role as a logistics gateway.
Kisumu International Airport is widening its runway for improved safety and capacity, while Moi International Airport (Mombasa)s rehabilitating airside grounds.
On the coast, Malindi International Airport is expanding to handle international traffic, supporting tourism and trade along the Indian Ocean corridor.
The government has also introduced an air passenger levy, raising domestic tickets by roughly Sh600 and international fares by Sh6,500, with proceeds earmarked for airport modernisation and maintenance.
According to GDU, the levy ensures a sustainable funding model that reduces reliance on state budgets while financing critical aviation infrastructure.
Economists highlight that efficient air transport underpins Kenya’s broader economic transformation, lowering logistics costs, improving mobility, and supporting regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Faster air links benefit exporters of high-value goods, while upgraded airports enhance Kenya’s attractiveness for investors and tourists alike.
Mr Sitati emphasized the government’s commitment to timely project delivery, stating, “Modern and efficient airports are key to positioning Kenya as a first-class economy by 2050. We are focused on delivering infrastructure that promotes inclusive growth, opens markets, and ensures Kenya remains a regional aviation leader.”
Kenya’s investment in air transport reflects more than infrastructure development—it signals a strategic shift toward sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive growth.
In modernising airports and airstrips, the government aims to make every runway a conduit for trade, mobility, and national development.
Kenya Intensifies Airport and Airstrip Upgrades to Boost Trade and Connectivity
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