Kisumu International Airport is set for a major transformation as the Kenyan government unveils ambitious plans to expand the facility and position Kisumu as a regional trade hub.
The expansion project will include the extension of the airport's runway and the construction of a state-of-the-art cargo terminal equipped with modern cold storage facilities. According to Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo, this upgrade will enable direct export of perishable goods like fresh fish and African leafy vegetables from Kisumu to international markets. The availability of cold storage is expected to preserve the quality of produce, extend shelf life, and offer farmers in Western Kenya a significant competitive advantage.
This airport expansion is part of a larger strategy to unlock the economic potential of the Nyanza region. To complement these efforts, the government is also constructing fish landing sites around Lake Victoria, aimed at boosting the fishing industry's contribution to exports.
Owalo emphasized that the airport's growth will not only support agriculture and fisheries but also attract agro-processors, exporters, and logistics companies to Kisumu. The resulting economic activities are projected to create thousands of job opportunities and revitalize the local economy.
Beyond the airport, the government is fast-tracking other critical infrastructure projects to support regional growth. These include discussions with the World Bank on the construction of the Lake Victoria Ring Road, upgrading key roads such as the Muhoroni–Miwani–Mamboleo Road, and prioritizing the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Kisumu. Water projects like the Koru–Soin Dam are also underway to address irrigation needs, water storage, and flood control.
In a strong message to contractors, Owalo warned that delays would not be tolerated. He stressed that contractors who fail to deliver on time will be blacklisted to ensure accountability and timely completion of projects.
The expansion of Kisumu International Airport marks a pivotal moment for the region, promising to open new economic frontiers and enhance Kisumu’s connectivity with the rest of the world.