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First Lady Rachel Ruto yesterday became the first to land and take off from the newly constructed Karenga Airstrip in Kericho county.

“I am excited to note that the test landing and take-off was successful and our First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto, became the first person to land and take off from the airstrip on Wednesday,” said Murkomen after he inspected the airstrip.

According to him, the first phase of construction works will be completed before next week’s Mashujaa Day celebrations, even as he stated that plans were underway to commence phase two of the project which will entail paving and expansion of the runway from the current 1.2km to 2km.

The CS said talks were ongoing between the government and Ekaterra Tea Company to fast-track the process of land acquisition and allow the issuance of operation license, expansion of works and the construction of a modern terminal building.

Complete construction

The construction of the Airstrip is being undertaken by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) with the support of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

Speaking after the inspection tour, Murkomen stated that the Government is working to complete construction of 12 other airstrips across the country to facilitate faster movement of people and goods, promote tourism, enhance access to emergency medical services, and enable the growth of local economies.

At the same time, the CS inspected the ongoing upgrading to bitumen standards of Kericho Town Roads in preparation for Mashujaa Day celebrations, slated for next Friday.

Once complete, the 10km road will facilitate access to essential facilities in the County including the Kericho Green Stadium (which will be the venue for the celebrations), markets, schools, and factories.
The road is also expected to have a proper drainage system and well-paved walkways that will promote Non-Motorised Transport.

“I congratulate Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) for the great progress they have made and I believe they will complete the work way ahead of time,” stated Murkomen.