Garissa, Wajir airport upgrades gather pace ahead of Madaraka Day

Officials from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) inspecting the Wajir Airport/STEPHEN ASTARIKO

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The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) on Saturday inspected ongoing aviation infrastructure projects in Garissa and Wajir as part of efforts aimed at improving air transport connectivity and supporting economic growth in Northern Kenya.

KAA Managing Director Moses Wekesa, accompanied by General Manager for Operations and Safety Dr Simon Peter and General Manager for Engineering Services Meshack Ochieng, toured the facilities to assess progress on key projects.

In Garissa, the team reviewed rehabilitation works at Garissa Airstrip, which are nearing completion.

The project includes expansion of the runway from 1,200 metres to 1,280 metres, construction of two taxiways, and development of a new apron to enhance the airstrip's capacity and operational efficiency.

The delegation also inspected a new terminal building being developed by the Garissa County Government, with completion expected by the end of June.

KAA said the project reflects collaboration between the national and county governments, with the authority undertaking pavement rehabilitation works while the county government oversees construction of the terminal.

The officials later visited Wajir Airport, where plans are underway for the construction of a dedicated civilian passenger terminal.

The proposed facility is intended to separate civilian and military operations, a move expected to enhance passenger experience, safety and operational efficiency at the airport.

During the visit, the KAA delegation held consultations with Wajir East MP Mohamed Aden Daudi ahead of the planned groundbreaking ceremony for the project.

The launch is expected to be presided over by President William Ruto during this year's June 1 Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County.

The airport upgrades form part of the government's broader efforts to modernise aviation infrastructure, strengthen regional connectivity and support economic development in the country's northern region.

The stadium features a full-sized football pitch, an eight-lane athletics track, VIP lounges, changing rooms and spectator facilities designed to international standards.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the facility on Friday, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya said the stadium was more than 90 per cent complete and ready to host the June 1 celebrations.

The handover marked a key milestone in preparations for the national event, which is set to be held in the North Eastern region for the first time since Kenya attained independence.

On Friday, the National Celebrations Steering Committee officially took over the newly constructed 10,000-seater stadium in Wajir town.