Kilifi leaders push for Malindi Airport expansion to revive tourism
The leaders said upgrading the airport would allow direct international flights, particularly from Europe, thereby restoring Malindi’s status as a leading tourist destination.
Leaders in Kilifi County have renewed calls for the expansion of Malindi Airport, terming the stalled project a major setback to tourism recovery and economic growth in the North Coast.
Led by Kilifi North MP Owen Baya emphasised that upgrading the airport would allow direct international flights, particularly from Europe, thereby restoring Malindi’s status as a leading tourist destination.
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“Malindi was once the jewel of Kenyan tourism, but its decline can be traced to poor infrastructure. Reviving the town starts with improving access, and that means expanding the airport,” said Baya, who also serves as Deputy Majority Leader in the National Assembly.
Baya added that the improved facility would not only bring in more visitors but also provide much-needed jobs for young people across Kilifi County.
Echoing his sentiments, Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Mbetsa said the county’s tourism potential remained high, but inadequate transport infrastructure continued to hinder growth.
“Kilifi is among the most attractive coastal destinations. Without direct international access, we are losing out to other global destinations,” she said.
However, County Commissioner Josphat Biwott attributed the project delays to unresolved land ownership issues, noting that squatters had occupied privately owned plots earmarked for the airport’s expansion.
“The problem isn’t with the government’s will, but with land acquisition. We have encountered people occupying land that doesn’t belong to them, making compensation and planning nearly impossible,” he explained.
Biwott disclosed that although some individuals had already been compensated for buildings and vegetation, others were now demanding payment for land despite lacking ownership documents.
“We are dealing with court cases that are slowing the process. If we had direct access to legitimate landowners, progress would be faster,” he added.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, who recently visited Kilifi, affirmed the national government’s commitment to turning Malindi into a tourism hub.
“We recognise the challenges the sector has faced post-COVID, but we believe strategic interventions like expanding this airport will help turn things around,” said Miano.
She pledged to engage the Ministry of Roads and Infrastructure to ensure the project is prioritised, noting the importance of a functioning airport in stimulating regional trade and attracting investment.
Currently, Malindi Airport only serves domestic flights, forcing international visitors to pass through Mombasa or Nairobi. Local leaders argue that direct access would not only revive tourism but also promote wider economic opportunities across the county.
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