By MN Reporter

Migori county Lichota’s airstrip upgrade work is moving on smoothly ahead of September 13 launch of commercial flights.

Last week, county Deputy Governor Mahiri Gimunta and County Secretary Oscar Olima led a delegation from the devolved unit to visit the progress of ongoing work at the strip which is about seven kilometers from Migori town.

Skyward Express, a commercial flight will launch flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays.

“We are here as a follow up to ensure all smooth towards our maiden commercial flight to Wilson Airport,” Gimunta said.

He said the devolved unit have been working closely with Kenya Airports Authority to ensure the upgrade is up to standard.

“We are confident that the progress by the contractor is smooth and we will be up and running by the date,” he said.

He said the upgrade of the airstrip runway an taxi area of planes was complete and what was remaining will be completed.

Work on arrival and departure terminals, washrooms, water and other amenities have been on going.

Gimunta said the county was close to Tanzania and about 50 kilometers from the Maasai Mara and Serengeti national parks which has seen Lichota Airstrip receive over 30 flights weekly.

“This will be a big business, tourism and trade boost to the county,” he said.

Olima said Migori has a UNESCO World Heritage Site at Thim Lich Oinga which will be key in opening up the county.

“We are confident this move will boost the county and shore up our image not only nationally, but also internationally,” Olima said.