HOMA BAY, Kenya — Construction of a modern passenger terminal at Kabunde Airstrip is progressing steadily, bringing Homa Bay County closer to realizing its ambition of becoming a key regional aviation hub.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the project, being implemented by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), is a major investment in regional connectivity that will strengthen the gains of devolution and unlock new economic opportunities in the region.
According to Omollo, the development will transform Kabunde from a modest airstrip into a fully functional Class C regional airport capable of supporting increased passenger traffic and enhanced air transport services.
“Investment in regional connectivity continues to deepen the gains of devolution, with the construction of the passenger terminal building and associated works at Kabunde Airstrip marking a significant step forward,” he said.
Construction of the passenger terminal is currently underway, with reinforced concrete columns already erected and foundation works progressing. The facility will feature modern passenger amenities, including check-in counters, security screening areas, baggage handling facilities, and administrative offices.
The broader project also includes the construction of an aircraft parking apron, taxiways, stormwater drainage systems, perimeter fencing, access roads, and parking bays designed to support efficient airport operations.
The terminal works follow the successful completion of the runway expansion phase in April 2026. The runway was extended from 1.1 kilometres to 1.3 kilometres, enabling aircraft such as the Dash 8-100 to operate at full passenger capacity.
With the runway, taxiways, and airfield markings completed, flight operations have already resumed at the facility. Scheduled flights now connect Homa Bay directly to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, improving access for business travellers, tourists, and investors.
The project is expected to boost tourism around Lake Victoria, enhance trade and investment opportunities, and improve access to government services across the wider South Nyanza region.
Meanwhile, terminal construction is continuing alongside active flight operations without disrupting scheduled services.
To support the transition, the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration is coordinating security measures around the facility. These include the deployment of security personnel and enhanced surveillance systems at entry and exit points.
Omollo said the measures are intended to safeguard passengers, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain public order as the facility evolves into a strategic transport gateway.
