State to spend Sh700m on Garissa airstrip renovation

The national government will pump Sh700 million towards modernisation of the Garissa airstrip in a joint project being undertaken with the county government of Garissa.

President William Ruto who made the announcement Thursday when he launched the construction process, said the funds are meant for the extension and mordenisation of the runway.

Acknowledging the importance of the facility in spurring the economy of the region, Ruto expressed his commitment to ensuring the upgrade process is completed so that the residents can fully exploit its potential.

“Some time back people here were forced to shelter under a tree as they wait for their flights but I have come here today to launch the construction,” he said.

The county, he said, has allocated funds for the new terminal structure which the construction is ongoing.

“We want to grow the economy of this region and that can only be possible when we have such this crucial facility. We want to have daily flights to Nairobi so that business can grow,” he added.

Ruto who is accompanied by his deputy Kithure Kindiki among other local leaders is in the region for a series of development activities.

His tour commenced Tuesday in Mandera before crossing over to Wajir. He will be in Isiolo on Friday before concluding it in Marsabit.

The airstrip which was constructed in 1984 has never undergone any major renovation and the ongoing works are set to give a facelift to accommodate more aircraft and ease the transport of goods and people.

This is in addition to increasing its commercial viability while aiding the provision of critical and emergency services such as humanitarian relief and medical evacuation in the region.

Other works to be undertaken as part of the renovations are a perimeter wall around the facility for security purposes, a car park, and a modern gate.