Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina has announced significant progress in the construction of the Narok International Airport, with 80 percent of staff housing structures already completed. The housing will accommodate workers involved in building the landmark project, which is expected to transform the region’s economy.
Speaking through a statement on X, Ledama emphasized the importance of the project, noting that Narok receives thousands of tourists annually due to its proximity to the world-famous Maasai Mara. “Narok airport will be international because the people who come to our county are not just local people. Today, we have thousands of tourists who visit Narok. Narok is going to be building the first International airport in South Rift,” he said.
The senator, however, pointed out setbacks slowing down progress, particularly the delay in connecting the project to the national power grid. He called on Kenya Power to expedite electricity supply to ensure timely completion.
President William Ruto officially launched the groundbreaking of the Sh700 million airport on May 8, 2025, pledging that the facility will be operational by March 2026. The project is being jointly funded by the national and Narok county governments, each contributing half the cost.
Ruto underscored the significance of the new airport, saying it would boost tourism and business in the county while helping to alleviate poverty. “You need an airport because the Maasai Mara is an important place. The national and county governments will both give half the money. We shall make sure that Narok becomes a tourist and business hub to reduce poverty,” he said during the launch.
The airport will sit on a 329-acre site, 12 kilometers from Narok town and 79 kilometers from the Maasai Mara’s Sekenani Gate. The first phase involves upgrading the current murram airstrip into a 1.5-kilometer asphalt runway, 30 meters wide, with an apron and taxiways. Future expansions will extend the runway to 1.8 kilometers.
Once complete, Narok International Airport is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce travel time for international visitors, and cement Narok’s place as a premier tourism and business destination in the South Rift.
