The KSh 710 million upgrade of Garissa Airstrip is emerging as one of the most strategic aviation investments in Northern Kenya, aimed at transforming the region into a logistics, trade, and humanitarian response hub.
Jointly funded by the National Government and the Garissa County Government, the project is now in its final stages, with full completion expected by April 2026.
How the KSh 710 million is being spent
The project is financed through a multi-level government partnership. The National Government has contributed KSh 600 million, while the Garissa County Government has provided KSh 110 million, underscoring a coordinated approach to regional infrastructure development.
The upgrade is being implemented in three phases:
Phase one (Completed – Security Infrastructure):
This phase focused on operational safety and was led by the Ministry of Defence. Works included the construction of a full perimeter security fence around the airstrip, laying the foundation for civilian and humanitarian aviation operations in a region long affected by insecurity.
Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said the ministry was committed to supporting the project with both technical expertise and security personnel, describing the airstrip as critical national infrastructure.
Phase two (85% Complete – Passenger Terminal):
Managed by the Garissa County Government, Phase Two involves construction of a modern terminal building. As of late 2025, the terminal was reported to be 85% complete.
Facilities under this phase include a VIP lounge, passenger check-in and waiting bays, an arrival hall, Kenya Airports Authority offices, retail shops, prayer and wudu areas, and expanded parking facilities.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo confirmed the progress in December 2025, noting that early emphasis on security had allowed terminal works to proceed without disruption.
Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, speaking during the terminal’s groundbreaking in October 2024, said the new facility would significantly improve passenger experience and position Garissa as a regional hub for trade and movement.
Phase three (Underway – Runway and Airside Works):
The final phase focuses on airside infrastructure and is scheduled for completion by April 2026. Works include extending the runway from 1.2 kilometres to 1.5 kilometres, rehabilitating the taxiway, and upgrading the aircraft apron. The contractor for this phase is Sihaam Limited.
Once completed, the extended runway will allow larger aircraft to land and support regular daily flights between Garissa and Nairobi.
Strategic importance beyond aviation
The upgraded airstrip is expected to deliver impact beyond passenger travel. President William Ruto has described the project as a gateway to unlocking Northern Kenya’s economic potential.
“We are upgrading the Garissa Airstrip to an international airport to facilitate trade and unlock the region’s huge economic potential,” President Ruto said on February 6, 2025, during an official tour of Garissa County where he launched the runway works.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has also framed the project as part of a broader regional transformation. “Development is happening, timelines are being met, and Northern Kenya is rising,” he said during an inspection tour in October 2025, adding that the airstrip is a major infrastructure investment aimed at improving transport connectivity and stimulating economic growth.
Beyond commerce, the facility is expected to strengthen medical evacuations, humanitarian relief operations, and emergency response across Garissa and neighbouring counties. The project also aligns with parallel developments such as affordable housing projects and the Mikono Modern Market, integrating aviation into urban and economic planning.
With 85% of the terminal complete and the runway extension on track for April 2026, the Garissa Airstrip upgrade is nearing delivery. Backed by KSh 710 million in public investment, the project marks a significant shift in how Northern Kenya is connected to the rest of the country—by air, by trade, and by opportunity.
