John David

KISUMU, KENYA -  The World Bank  has called on the Kenyan government to hasten expansion of Kisumu Airport on the shores of lake victorie, western Kenya to accommodate larger aircraft, saying further delay could lead to massive loss of  business opportunities.

The facility sits at a strategic location hence direct flights from the airport could see Kenya rake maximum gains in business from exports to the lucrative markets in Europe and Asia, World Bank senior advisor Dr Anil Bhandari said.

"This facility is a goldmine and its potential is further boosted by its vantage location. Kenya stand to secure markets for its agricultural products that have lacked efficient mode of transport to the markets," the official told reporters in Kisumu city on the sidelines of a tripartite meeting to access the progress of the project.

The on going  project is a joint venture between the Kenyan government and the World Bank at a cost of $62 million  (Ksh4.8 billion.)

The Bank had already given its share of $39 million (Ksh3 billion) but the Kenyan government is yet to hand in its share of $23million (Ksh1.8 billion), which should cater for construction of an additional length of  300 meters  on the runway.

Currently, the facility can only accommodate the Boeing 737s  but the expansion will ensure the larger 767s ,which are the most popular for  international travels are able to use the facility. The apron and taxiway will also undergo major refurbishment to fit into the requirements.

Analyst say the airport has the potential to shore up Kenya's earnings from exports and foreign exchange to EU, Asia and American markets.

Tourism and Agriculture, which are the country's economic  back-bone have their base in the western Kenya region where the airport is located thus could provide an incentive for tourists to travel directly from various destinations to the area.

"Direct flights into Kenya through Kisumu is a sure bet to earn more revenue as opposed to traveling through other installations like Nairobi. Tourists will come and spend money hence ensuring circulation," said James Otieno, a lead consultant with Nyanza Economic Forum, an outfit working to boost the regions economic fortunes.

Kisumu is also regarded as a commercial hub and a gateway to the EAC.