Kakamega Governor Barasa Urges Urgent Action to Address Airstrip Challenges

The suspension of flights to and from Kakamega Airstrip, announced by Skyward Express, has cast a shadow on the economic activities of Kakamega County. Governor Fernandes Barasa has now called on the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure to urgently address the infrastructural challenges facing the airstrip. The poor state of the runway has raised concerns regarding safety, prompting Skyward Express to halt operations beginning September 30, 2024. This article delves into the implications of the flight suspension, the challenges plaguing the Kakamega Airstrip, and the potential solutions to revive its operations and safeguard the county’s economy.

1. Context: Kakamega Airstrip and Its Importance to the County

Kakamega Airstrip, a crucial gateway for business and tourism in Western Kenya, serves as the primary connection between Kakamega and other parts of the country. While it is not among Kenya’s largest airports, the airstrip has grown in significance over the years due to its strategic location. Kakamega County, known for its rich cultural heritage, agricultural activities, and growing business sector, has benefited from the ease of transportation afforded by the airstrip.

The airstrip provides vital connections to Nairobi and other regional hubs, allowing businesses to flourish through quick access to markets, while also supporting the county’s burgeoning tourism industry. With air travel increasingly becoming a preferred mode of transportation for local and international visitors, the airstrip’s operational efficiency directly impacts Kakamega’s economic vitality.

2. Skyward Express’ Suspension of Flights: Immediate Impacts

On September 25, 2024, Skyward Express issued a public notice announcing its decision to suspend flights to and from Kakamega Airstrip starting September 30, 2024. The airline cited the deteriorating condition of the runway, which it deemed unsafe for continued operations. This announcement comes as a major blow to the residents of Kakamega County, many of whom rely on air travel for business, healthcare, and tourism.

The suspension of flights will have several immediate impacts:

• Economic Slowdown: The suspension is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy. Businesses, particularly in the tourism, agriculture, and trade sectors, rely on air travel for the swift movement of goods and personnel. Without air connectivity, businesses may face delays, increased transportation costs, and reduced market access.
• Tourism Decline: Kakamega Forest, a renowned tourist attraction, draws visitors from across the country and beyond. The suspension of flights may result in a decline in tourist arrivals, negatively affecting local hospitality businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
• Increased Travel Costs: With flights suspended, residents and business travelers will be forced to rely on road transport, which is not only slower but can be more expensive, particularly for time-sensitive cargo or emergencies. The inconvenience will likely deter potential investors from choosing Kakamega as a business destination.

3. Infrastructural Challenges at the Kakamega Airstrip

Governor Barasa’s appeal for urgent intervention comes in response to long-standing infrastructural issues at the Kakamega Airstrip. Despite its importance to the county’s economy, the airstrip has suffered from underinvestment and neglect, leading to a series of challenges:

• Deteriorating Runway Conditions: The primary concern raised by Skyward Express pertains to the poor state of the runway. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces have compromised the safety of aircraft operations. Runway maintenance is critical for ensuring smooth takeoffs and landings, and without proper repairs, the airstrip cannot meet the safety standards required by airlines.
• Lack of Modern Facilities: The airstrip also lacks essential infrastructure such as modern terminals, waiting lounges, and security facilities. This makes it difficult to handle increasing passenger numbers or attract new airlines. Limited capacity for cargo handling further hampers the potential for trade.
• Inadequate Lighting and Navigation Aids: Night flights and operations under poor visibility are virtually impossible due to the absence of adequate lighting and modern navigation systems. This limitation reduces the airstrip’s operational hours, constraining its potential for growth and regional connectivity.

4. Governor Barasa’s Appeal and the Role of the National Government

During a church service at Lurambi PAG Church Sichirayi, Governor Fernandes Barasa took the opportunity to address the crisis. He highlighted that the suspension of flights would have serious repercussions for the county’s economy and urged the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure to take immediate action. He emphasized that the situation called for urgent repairs and upgrades to the runway to prevent further disruption to economic activities.

Governor Barasa’s call for action underscores the need for greater collaboration between county and national governments. While county governments are responsible for managing infrastructure within their jurisdiction, major airstrips like Kakamega fall under the purview of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and the national government. The Governor has called on the Ministry to allocate the necessary funds and technical expertise to restore the airstrip to operational standards.

The Governor’s concerns are valid given the airstrip’s potential to drive economic development not just in Kakamega but the entire Western Kenya region. With proper investment and modernization, the Kakamega Airstrip could attract new airlines and support the county’s ambitions of becoming a regional economic hub.

5. Possible Solutions and the Path Forward

To address the challenges facing the Kakamega Airstrip, a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach will be needed. Below are some key steps that can be taken to restore the airstrip’s operations and mitigate the economic fallout:

a) Runway Rehabilitation and Expansion

The immediate priority must be the rehabilitation of the airstrip’s runway. This will involve resurfacing and repairing the existing runway to meet the safety requirements set by aviation authorities. In the long term, consideration should be given to expanding the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and increase the airstrip’s capacity.

b) Investment in Modern Facilities

Upgrading the airstrip’s infrastructure, including the construction of modern terminals and the installation of security and passenger screening systems, is crucial. The provision of better waiting areas, cargo facilities, and enhanced navigation aids will improve both passenger and airline experiences, making the airstrip a more attractive option for travelers and businesses.

c) Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)

Given the financial constraints faced by the national and county governments, public-private partnerships can offer a viable solution for funding the upgrades. Engaging private sector investors in the aviation industry could provide the resources needed to modernize the airstrip while reducing the burden on public finances.

d) Enhanced Marketing and Promotion

Once the airstrip’s infrastructure has been improved, there should be a concerted effort to market Kakamega as a regional tourism and business hub. Strategic partnerships with airlines and tour operators can help promote the county’s unique attractions, such as Kakamega Forest and its cultural heritage, drawing more visitors and boosting the local economy.

e) Long-Term Vision for Regional Connectivity

The challenges faced by Kakamega Airstrip are not unique. Many regional airstrips across Kenya require upgrades to meet growing demand. The national government should consider developing a long-term vision for regional air connectivity, with a focus on improving infrastructure, expanding services, and promoting air travel as a catalyst for economic development.

6. Conclusion: The Urgency of Action

The suspension of flights at Kakamega Airstrip has highlighted the critical importance of infrastructure in driving regional economic development. Governor Barasa’s urgent call for action underscores the need for immediate repairs to the runway and broader investment in the airstrip’s facilities. Without swift intervention, Kakamega risks losing out on economic opportunities that depend on air connectivity.

As the county awaits action from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, the future of Kakamega Airstrip remains uncertain. However, with the right investments and a focus on modernization, the airstrip can be restored as a vital economic artery for the region. For Kakamega’s businesses, tourists, and residents, the hope is that solutions will be found before the economic toll of the suspension becomes too great to bear.