The government has announced a major expansion of Kisumu International Airport to position the city as a regional hub for exports and trade. The project includes a runway extension and the construction of a modern cargo terminal to handle fresh produce from the Lake Region.
Project factsheet
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Project: Kisumu International Airport Expansion
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Main features: Runway extension, new cargo terminal, cold storage facility
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Objective: Improve export capacity for perishable goods
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Supporting projects: Lake Victoria Ring Road, SGR extension, Koru–Soin Dam
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Status: Planning and early implementation stages
Deputy Chief of Staff Eliud Owalo said the new developments will allow direct export of fresh fish, vegetables, and other farm produce from Kisumu to international markets. Cold storage units at the terminal will help preserve goods and reduce spoilage, making the region more competitive globally.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has also identified the expansion of Kisumu International Airport as part of its 2022–2026 strategic plan. The airport is currently handling about 500,000 passengers annually, and the upgrade aims to increase its capacity for both cargo and passenger traffic.
READ ALSO: Kenya set to build new airport as government seeks to modernise aviation infrastructure
Expansion of Kisumu International Airport supported by key infrastructure projects
Owalo noted that the government is working on related infrastructure to support the airport. These include ongoing construction of fish landing sites with storage facilities along Lake Victoria. The sites will help fishermen prepare exports for direct shipment from Kisumu.
He added that the government is fast-tracking road projects like the Muhoroni-Miwani–Mamboleo Road and seeking World Bank funding for the Lake Victoria Ring Road. These roads will improve movement of goods and connect counties in the region.
The SGR extension from Naivasha to Kisumu is also a priority. It is expected to lower transport costs for cargo and improve access to the port of Mombasa.
Additionally, the Koru–Soin Dam project is underway to provide water storage, flood control, and support irrigation in flood-prone areas.
Owalo warned that contractors who delay projects will be blacklisted. He said the government wants results and will ensure all infrastructure projects stay on track.
