Ruto: Voi residents to benefit from passenger night train, reopening of Ikanga Airstrip
Taita Taveta County Trade and Tourism Executive Vumi Ringo noted that the airstrip was 98 per cent complete as of 2021.
Residents of Voi in Taita Taveta County have reason to celebrate after President William Ruto announced the introduction of a night stopover for the Madaraka Express train in their town starting December 15, 2024.
The President announced this on Tuesday during the launch of the Devki Iron Ore Palletisation Plant in Manga, Taita Taveta County.
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He assured residents that their longstanding request to have the Madaraka Express train stop in Voi at night had been addressed in order to boost convenience for travellers and support local businesses, marking a milestone for the region.
"I have directed the Transport Ministry, and they have confirmed that from December 15, the train will start the night stopover in Voi," Ruto said.
Currently, the Madaraka Express train only makes a stopover in Voi during the day, with its night service bypassing the town entirely.
According to Kenya Railways' existing schedule, the night train departs from both Mombasa and Nairobi termini at 10 pm without stops along the journey.
This move is expected to provide residents with improved travel options while enhancing local economic activities tied to transport and trade.
Reopening of Ikanga Airstrip
In addition to the new train stopover, President Ruto announced the reopening of the Ikanga Airstrip in Voi, which had been non-operational due to unresolved issues.
The airstrip will resume operations on December 15, 2024, a development the President described as beneficial not only for the residents but also for his travels.
"We have completed everything entailed with the Ikanga Airstrip, and I am happy to inform you that it will be back in operation on December 15, 2024," Ruto said.
Taita Taveta County Trade and Tourism Executive Vumi Ringo noted that the airstrip was 98 per cent complete as of 2021.
Its reopening is expected to significantly boost tourism and improve regional connectivity.
During the same event, President Ruto commended Devki Steel Mills for its contributions to enhancing Kenya's manufacturing capacity.
He urged Kenyans to embrace private investments, highlighting their role in fostering economic growth and creating employment opportunities.
"Private investments drive growth, and they create jobs. Let us embrace them to make progress as a nation," Ruto said.
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