Bomet’s Itembe Airstrip is undergoing its first major overhaul since 1990, with the facility expected to return to service after years of disuse and deterioration.
The airstrip, officially known as Itembe Airstrip, was initially cleared as a simple murram runway during the colonial period before it was first tarmacked in 1990.
However, the facility subsequently fell into disuse and deep decay, remaining dormant for more than three decades.
“For over three decades, under successive administrations, the dormant facility was used mainly as a driving-school training ground and grazing field,” the statement said.
The ongoing reconstruction by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) is now expected to restore the facility to its intended purpose, with structural completion targeted for the end of the year.
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Works underway
Phase One of the project is currently progressing, with earthworks, subgrade preparation and compaction underway ahead of asphalt surfacing.
The completed project will feature a 1,000-metre-long and 18-metre-wide asphalt-concrete runway, alongside a taxiway and aircraft parking apron.
Additional infrastructure will include a windsock, drainage system and perimeter security fence.
The facilities are being developed to meet applicable standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
“Its current reconstruction by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) marks a decisive return to service, with structural completion targeted for the end of the year,” the statement said.
Boost for Tenwek Hospital
The revived airstrip is expected to strengthen emergency medical access in the region, particularly for air ambulance operations serving AGC Tenwek Hospital and its Tenwek Cardiothoracic Centre.
The improved aviation link is expected to support faster movement of patients requiring specialised treatment, as well as emergency medical evacuations and access to healthcare services.
“The revived airstrip will strengthen emergency medical access, particularly for air ambulance operations serving AGC Tenwek Hospital and its Tenwek Cardiothoracic Centre,” the statement said.
The project is also expected to improve connectivity for Bomet’s agricultural economy, particularly the tea and horticultural sectors.
Improved air transport infrastructure could provide an additional link for the movement of high-value and time-sensitive agricultural products while opening up opportunities for trade and investment.
Government steps up security
The Government is also putting in place security measures to protect the strategic facility during construction and after its completion.
Through the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration, the Government is supporting arrangements aimed at securing the airstrip, its users and neighbouring communities.
“The Government is supporting a secure environment for strategic infrastructure such as the airstrip, ensuring appropriate security arrangements protect the facility, its users and surrounding communities both during construction and once operations commence,” the statement said.
