KAA injects Sh1.9billion for Kisumu Airport expansion

By NICHOLAS ANYUOR

Kenya Airport Authority has embarked on a Sh 1.9 billion Phase Two of the construction of Kisumu Airport to increase the capacity and strengthen the airportfs runways.

This will see the airport accommodate bigger aircrafts and over 300,000 passengers per year.

The construction will also see the facility, which was opened few months ago, have its runway

President Kibaki commissions the opening of Kisumu International Airport in February this year.[PHOTO: FILE/STANDARD]

shoulders paved, more cargo aprons established, more approach lights in the lake made, parallel taxiway constructed and an additional parking.

Airport Managing Director Joseph Okumu said the Phase II construction will be completed by mid next year aimed at achieving the Vision 2030 goals.

"Already we have started. We are going to ensure this is a successful project for the Vision 2030 projects in this region," he said.

He further said the new apron will be constructed to accommodate more crafts while a new car park will accommodate about 130 cars.

"We shall have new airfield ground lighting including directional signs, runway lights, approach lights, among others," he said.

Mr Okumu said the second phase will also include some other cargo facilities such as transit shades and strengthening of the entire runway to accommodate bigger aircrafts.

He was speaking during a visit by the Vision 2030 Secretariat Chief Executive Officer Mr Mugo Kibati who said it was important for Kenyans to know how the facility was progressing.

He said the Kisumu International Airport will be expanded for transport accessibility within the Great Lakes region.

"This is one of the Vision 2030 projects in this country and we are proud it might be completed at the right time," he said.

The Kisumu International Airport was launched a few months ago by President Mwai Kibaki and the Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who advised the local communities to utilise the facility.

"They heeded the leadersf calls and many are now doing business around. Tourism sector will be boosted," said Mr Okumu.

@

@

@