Residents neighbouring Matulo airstrip in Webuye West constituency have agreed to relocate, in order to clear the way for the long-awaited expansion of the facility.

The project had initially faced resistance from a segment of the community who demanded that compensation be paid before their land is demarcated.

The relocation will proceed once compensation is provided, marking a key milestone in the government’s efforts to modernise the airstrip.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka and Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama engaged local residents on the importance of the facility and the need for them to relocate.

The residents expressed their readiness to support the project by surrendering their land.

“We are prepared to move as soon as we receive compensation. In fact, some of us have already begun searching for alternative land,” said Paul Wasike.

Lusaka assured that the placement of beacons was solely intended to process title deeds and ensure that compensation was distributed fairly.

The compensation process will be conducted jointly by the Bungoma County Government and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).

The expansion project comes after KAA requested an extension of the airstrip’s runway to accommodate larger aircraft.

A portion of the new runway has already been completed, with the remaining works set to begin once land acquisition is finalised.

Wanyama encouraged residents to cooperate fully with the project and cautioned against inflating land prices.

Once completed, the enhanced airstrip is expected to serve as a vital economic gateway, connecting Western Kenya with Eastern Uganda and beyond.

Matulo airstrip is one of the flagship projects initiated by President Ruto when Bungoma played host to Madaraka Day celebrations last year.