The Kenya Airports Authority has launched a two-day tour to inspect airstrips currently being upgraded across the country, with the first visits taking place in Kericho and Bomet counties.
The move is part of the Authority’s drive to enhance aviation safety, improve air transport services, and strengthen connectivity in regional hubs.
The inspection began at Kerenga Airstrip in Kericho County, where KAA is implementing major improvements to modernize the facility.
“The works are designed to boost safety, efficiency, and overall service delivery at the airstrip,” the Authority said in a statement on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The upgrade project at Kerenga, which was competitively awarded in 2025, involves transforming the existing gravel runway into a bitumen-standard surface.
The runway will be extended from one kilometre to 1.2 kilometres and widened to 23 metres, while a new apron and two taxiways are being constructed. In addition, a perimeter fence will be installed to meet contemporary security and aviation standards.
Following the Kericho inspection, the team proceeded to Itembe Airstrip in Bomet County, considered strategic for re-establishing air connectivity in the South Rift region.
Itembe has not been rehabilitated since 1990, and the current upgrades are being carried out in phases to bring it up to international standards, including runway layout, lighting, obstacle clearance, and emergency services.
Phase One at Itembe is already underway and involves building a 1,000-metre by 18-metre asphalt runway, taxiways, an apron, proper drainage systems, a windsock, and perimeter fencing. KAA stated that this phase is expected to take 15 months and will enhance operational reliability and safety at the airstrip.
Phase Two will further expand the airstrip’s capacity, including a 1,200-metre by 23-metre runway and terminal facilities. Once completed, Itembe is expected to support medical evacuation operations, general aviation, tourism, and farming-related transport services.
The inspection is being led by KAA Board Chairman Caleb Kositany, alongside Director Eng. Walter Ogola and Acting Managing Director Dr. Mohamud Gedi. Members of the board and senior management are reviewing the progress of these critical infrastructure projects firsthand.
The upgrades at Kerenga and Itembe follow similar rehabilitation works at Kakamega Airstrip, which began on December 1, 2025, with a focus on improving the runway, taxiways, and apron to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
