The national government has spent Sh 19million to rehabilitate Kitui Airstrip to meet the growing demand for affordable air transport and enhance connectivity with other parts of the country.
Kitui County Commissioner John Ondego revealed the report and explained that that air transport is now accepted as a fundamental pillar of our global society, as indispensable to our daily lives as medicine and telecommunications and essential for social progress and economic prosperity.
โThe growing availability of affordable air travel has considerably widened aviationโs role in our sustainable society. Air travel is no longer a luxury service. The air transport industry has not only underpinned wealth creation in the country but has also brought enormous benefits to developing economies by unlocking their potential for trade and tourism. This is the gateway to Kitui South game reserve. We have driven out all the illegal camel herders and other squatters inside the wildlife sanctuary. At the moment, one is able to see the big five and enjoy the ambience of nature undisturbed,โ said Ondego.
Upgrade works
The airstrip is situated at Ithookwe, five kilometers west of Kitui Town and sits on land measuring about 12.5 acres. The rehabilitation works included fencing, car park and construction of a modern ablution block for the public and VIPs. Plans are underway to complete the runway to allow fixed wing planes to land and take off from.
The development will tilt the economic fortunes of the county once the tender to construct the runway is awarded as it will attract investors in the aviation sector and make it a practical training ground for budding pilots.
According to the County Commissioner, the airstrip will contribute to sustainable development adding that by facilitating tourism and trade, it will generate economic growth, provide jobs, increase revenues from taxes and foster the conservation of protected areas.
โIt is worth noting that air transport network facilitates the delivery of emergency and humanitarian aid relief anywhere and ensures the swift delivery of medical supplies. Development of air transport on its technical and service achievements make it one of the greatest contributors to the advancement of modern society,โ said Ondego
