Migori County Governor, Dr. Ochilo Ayacko, has welcomed plans by both the county and national government to expand the Lichota airship.
Speaking at his official residents after meeting representatives from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Power, and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Ochilo applauded proposals to expand the Migori-Lichota airstrip runway from 1.2 kilometres to 2 kilometres.
He said it was critical for the expansion owing to the increased number of passengers at the Lichota Airstrip, which he said currently experiences approximately 12 flights, both arrivals and departures, per day.
Governor Ochilo emphasised that the expansion of the airstrip will bring economic development, particularly in accommodating tourists during the wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. He further highlighted that this development will be beneficial for the county residents, tourists, and the entire country.
“Today I met with officials and discussed the expansion of the Lichota Airstrip and how the benefits can be channelled to our tourism sector using the proximity between Migori and Serengeti National Park,” said the governor.
He added that the expansion of the terminal will increase the number of tourists travelling to Serengeti National Park during the spectacular wildebeest migration, which will further increase the economic income of the county and its residents.
During the upcoming presidential visit to the Nyanza region, Governor Ochilo said the county was keen to urge the head of state to address issues such as affordable housing, water, food security, and the expansion of the terminal.
He, however, said the top priority was to engage President Ruto to support the expansion of the Migori Airstrip to benefit the entire county.
The governor also emphasised that the expansion of the airstrip will create employment opportunities, especially for Generation Zee, acknowledging that public participation will be crucial in addressing any potential shortcomings.
Migori County Commissioner Kisiru Mutua emphasised that the expansion discussions will open opportunities to residents as well as provide a perfect opportunity to accommodate both local and international travellers.
Meanwhile, KAA Director Henry Ogoye, elaborated that the inspection done at the Lichota Airstrip proves it is viable for growth, specifically in areas of terminal expansion and increased parking to accommodate 30,000 passengers from the current 22,000 per year.
By Beryl Akinyi
