Plans underway to expand Moi International Airport

Last Updated 13 years ago by Kenya Engineer

There are plans to expand the Moi International Airport (MIA) in Mombasa in accordance with Kenya’s Vision 2030. This is with efforts to allow for the accommodation of more planes, given the airport serves as one of the key aviation hubs in the country.

However, speaking when leading a routine inspection of the facility to determine its safety, security and efficiency; Transport Principal Secretary, Nduva Muli said that illegal development and acquisition of Kenya Airports Authority land in Mombasa is stalling the expansion project. 

“The ministry has plans to carry out a major expansion programme on the airports which will include improvement of security, safety and efficiency of the airport. Those who have encroached should take notice and leave at their own accord before action is taken. We shall not compromise,” said Mr. Muli.

Mr. Muli said the Kenya Airport Authority has full control over all land belonging to airports.

‘’There is no compromise. Any developer should ensure that he does not encroach on airport land,’’ he said.

Also, key players in the tourism industry want action taken to decongest the road liked to the airport. 

‘’Passengers arriving or accessing the airport have had to endure long hours on the road due to blockage by heavy commercial vehicles,’’ said Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association Chairman, Mohamed Hersi.

Mr. Muli also said that a regional infrastructure conference that will conclude in a summit of the East African Heads of State would be held today in Mombasa.

“It will be an important meeting that seeks to consolidate infrastructural development to support intra-boundary trade and accelerate economic development in the region,’’ Mr. Muli had said.

The preceding trilateral meeting between Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda was held in June this year in Entebbe Uganda. (Read: Kenya to spearhead oil pipeline development)