The government has announced plans to revive the decommissioned Suneka Airstrip in Bonchari Constituency, Kisii County, as part of a wider strategy to unlock stalled infrastructure projects in the Gusii region.
A delegation led by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Kisii Governor Simba Arati toured the airstrip on Friday to inspect the site and engage with local leaders and residents. The visit comes barely three weeks after Gusii leaders held a high-level meeting with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, to push for the revival of key projects in the region.
CS Ogamba revealed that a team of government experts has already been deployed to re-assess the Suneka site and chart a fresh plan for construction. He underscored the Kenya Kwanza Administration’s commitment to expanding transport infrastructure, terming it a key driver of economic growth and regional integration.
“The Kenya Kwanza Administration is committed to expanding transport infrastructure across the country, in full recognition of the fact that they are a catalyst for economic growth. The construction and re-commissioning of Suneka Airstrip is part of these efforts,” Ogamba said.
The revival of the airstrip is expected to enhance connectivity in South Nyanza and neighboring regions, creating new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment. Once operational, the facility could also help decongest Kisumu International Airport and offer a more convenient gateway for residents and businesses in Kisii and Nyamira counties.
In addition to the airstrip, the government announced plans to revamp other stalled projects, including the modernization of Kisii Prison, the completion of Gusii Stadium, and the rehabilitation of major roads across the region.
Governor Arati and other leaders present urged residents to remain united and rally behind the government’s development agenda. They emphasized that the revival of these projects would not only stimulate economic growth but also create jobs and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
The announcement has been received with cautious optimism by residents, who hope the promises will translate into tangible action after years of stalled progress.
