Govt renews plans to expand airstrip in Kindiki’s Tharaka Nithi backyard
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 12, 2025The National Land Commission (NLC) has issued a notice on land adjustments for the expansion of Itugururu Airstrip in Tharaka Nithi County. The move, published in the Kenya Gazette dated Friday, October 10, 2025, includes deletions, corrections, and additions of several parcels of land required for the project.
The notice, issued on behalf of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), follows previous communications by NLC clarifying the acquisition process. Some parcels initially listed for acquisition have been deleted, while new parcels have been added to the plan in a bid to expand the airstrip in Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s home turf.
“The National Land Commission, on behalf of Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), gives notice that the Government intends to delete, correct and add the following parcels of land required for expansion of Itugururu Airstrip in Tharaka Nithi County,” the notice read in parts.
NLC has urged affected landowners to visit its offices to submit identification, land ownership documents, bank details, and other relevant paperwork to facilitate compensation. Companies owning land are required to submit certificates of incorporation, CR12 forms, KRA PINs, and identification for directors. The NLC offices are located at Ardhi House, Nairobi, and the county office in Tharaka Nithi.
Boosting transport and trade
The expansion of Itugururu Airstrip is part of a broader government plan to improve infrastructure in the county. The project will include a 1.2-kilometre runway, a terminal building, and supporting facilities. Authorities expect the project to enhance transportation, boost trade, and create opportunities for tourism and local business.
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has previously assured residents that the airstrip will be constructed alongside ongoing road tarmacking works. Speaking in January 2025, Governor Njuki noted that the county currently has only one gazetted airstrip, which dates back to the colonial period.
He said the new airstrip would open up economic opportunities, improve access to healthcare and education, and strengthen emergency services. Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the announcement, though some previously raised concerns over compensation and clarity of the project.