The Nyaribo Airstrip rehabilitation which started in November 2020 is set to be completed in July 2021. The Airstrip boasts a bigger VIP lounge compared those at the Wilson and Kisumu Airport.
The rehabilitation includes the construction of a VIP lounge, electrical works, mechanical works and storm water drainage works with the actual cost set at Ksh 39,920,629.The project is expected to benefit the area in terms of improving livelihood of locals.
Speaking during the event, the Northern Region KAA manager, Joseph Okumu, revealed that KAA had increased the number of flights for training schools to the airstrip, noting that many people are making applications seeking to put up hangers in the airstrip.
Nyeri Town MP Hon Wambugu added that airports are enablers of economic growth as they act as attractions for private investors.
Land prices around the airstrip have gone higher, infrastructure is also improving and hotels in the area are already preparing to carter to needs of travellers.
President Kenyatta did the ground breaking of the 190 acres project in November 2018, but construction delayed till November 2020.
The Dedan Kimathi University where a lot of international manufacturing companies have set up workshops, neighbours the airport and hopes to benefit from the new venture.
The Nanyuki Airstrip is also undergoing rehabilitation and will include an airstrip that will accommodate bigger planes with a carrying capacity of up to 52 passengers. Previously the airstrip could only accommodate planes with a capacity of 14 passengers..
The upgrading of the airstrip will cost Ksh 300 million and will be expected to improve tourism and trade in the region.
The Airstrip is expected to rival Wilson and Ukunda Airports in terms of domestic flights since Laikipia County is a major tourist destination.
David Kyule, Nanyuki Airstrip Manager,has revealed that engineers in the Airstrip have assembled four planes so far including an Airbus helicopter owned by Tropic Air.
