Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed the government's ambitious plans to set up another airport.
Speaking in Bungoma County, the Transport Cabinet Secretary informed locals that the Kenya Kwanza administration was keen to set up the airport in the region.
The former Elgeyo Marakwet Senator pointed out that the government has identified and mapped out the area around Matulo Airstrip to improve its aviation handling capabilities.
In the new plan, Matulo Airstrip will be rehabilitated and more structures installed to meet airport standards. According to the CS, the runway will be 1.2 kilometres to allow large aeroplanes to land and take off.
Besides extending the runway, a new terminal building with capabilities of handling more passengers and planes will be constructed in the area.
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"To further enhance the movement of people and goods, the Government is upgrading the Matulo Airstrip to an airport. The runway will be extended to 1.2km of tarmac and a terminal building put up," he stated.
However, Murkomen did not give the amount that will be spent to build the airport in the region and the construction timelines.
Nonetheless, the CS lauded the government for agreeing to build the airport in the area indicating that it was key to creating employment and improving the economy of the Western region.
"During the construction, locals will get jobs and business opportunities," Murkomen announced.
It is also expected to spur tourism in the region enriched with several tourist attractions.
When completed, it will reduce the pressure on Eldoret Airport, Wilson Airport and the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
