Lichota Airport in Migori County is undergoing modernisation works aimed at increasing its capacity to handle up to 500,000 passengers annually.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced the development on Thursday, October 29, noting that the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) was overseeing the construction of a modern passenger terminal to replace the airport’s existing basic waiting facilities.
The new terminal is designed to accommodate rising domestic and international travel demand while improving connectivity between Migori and other markets.
Omollo said the project highlighted the importance of modern transport infrastructure in stimulating regional economic growth, expanding trade and attracting investment.
The facility will feature dedicated domestic and international passenger sections, as well as Customs and Immigration facilities to facilitate passenger clearance and cross-border travel.
The terminal will also be integrated with the airport’s expanded two-kilometre runway, which is intended to accommodate larger commercial aircraft and increase its capacity to handle air traffic.
According to Omollo, the improved infrastructure is expected to create economic opportunities in Migori and neighbouring areas by enhancing trade, encouraging investment and supporting tourism.
He added that the upgraded airport could strengthen Migori’s position as a regional transport hub, particularly because of its proximity to neighbouring markets and its potential to facilitate cross-border movement of people and goods.
Security and border management will also form a key part of the airport’s operations. Omollo said the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration would coordinate security and border control arrangements to ensure the safe and efficient movement of passengers and cargo.
Muhuru Bay Pier Project to Boost Lake Victoria Trade
Meanwhile, the rehabilitation and development of Muhuru Bay Pier in Migori County is expected to improve regional commerce, strengthen fish marketing and unlock the economic potential of Lake Victoria.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 27, Omollo said construction was progressing on the project, which was launched by President William Ruto in May 2025 and is being implemented by the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
Current works include shoreline protection and stabilisation measures intended to strengthen the pier’s approach and protect the surrounding coastline from wave action.
Omollo said contractors were installing a steel retaining barrier in the lake and placing and compacting rock fill to create a stable approach to the planned port facilities.
Also Read: UoN Given 14 Days to Account for KSh10.6 Billion in Pension and Tax Arrears
Once completed, the project will feature a 50-by-30-metre reinforced concrete jetty designed to accommodate larger vessels.
Additional facilities will include cold storage units for preserving fish, an administrative building to support port and customs operations, and perimeter security infrastructure.
The new facilities are expected to improve fish preservation, reduce post-harvest losses and make it easier for fishing communities to transport their produce to wider markets.
Omollo said the port would also strengthen water transport links between lakeside towns, including Homa Bay, Sori and Kisumu, improving the movement of goods and supporting economic activity around Lake Victoria.
