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{
    "id": 1552950,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1552950/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 279,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Hon. Davis Chirchir",
    "speaker_title": "The Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "my former colleague and workmate in the historical life we have come from allows me, we can work on a substantive response to that question. Regarding the question by Sen. Mandago from Uasin Gishu, we are planning to improve the Eldoret Airport from a 3.5-kilometre runway to four kilometres to uplift bigger flights for the kind of agricultural produce that we get in and out of Eldoret. Plans for this are there. However, there is a small dispute that needs to be resolved to allow us to extend the kilometres from 3.5 to four kilometres. A lot of work has been done. If Sen. Mandago, former Governor of Uasin Gishu County, can work with us to resolve that small dispute in the former Aerotech land, which is having a small challenge, we will be able to extend the Eldoret Airport from a 3.5 kilometre to four-kilometre runway. The issue of Baringo Airstrip has been echoed by Sen. Maanzo, my colleague and old-time friend. We need to resolve the fact that most of the airstrips are under the Ministry of Interior and National Coordination. So, this particular one, which is key for security and addressing the concerns of the region. I will work closely with my colleague from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, as we are working on other airstrips, to see how we can improve the Baringo Airstrip. This is to ensure that the airstrip remains in a condition where it can be utilized at any time as emergencies require a fully operational facility. I will also collaborate with my colleague from the Ministry of Interior and National Admimistration to explore ways to improve and operate the Baringo Airstrip. I believe I have addressed Sen. Madzayo’s question regarding the need to work closely with the Ministry of Interior and National Admimistration to establish a framework for maintaining airstrips under their jurisdiction. Additionally, as I mentioned earlier, airstrips like Sololo and the airport in Marsabit are examples of how we can work together to ensure their functionality. Sen. Nyutu, allow me to go and undertake further research on how a Government agency can intervene to lay lines within the airstrip and address the reported security concerns. This aligns with Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) requirements, ensuring it remains a safe landing site free from secondary installations like power lines or misuse as a dumping site. Hon. Senators, the functionality and serviceability of airports relate directly to revenue generation. When airports fail to generate revenue due to a lack of allocated budgets and infrequent flights, they risk deteriorating. As I stated earlier, we are committed to developing a solid plan to ensure airstrips are maintained. This will ensure that they do not become idle sites prone to misuse such as installations of power lines or waste dumping. This is why we prioritize securing airstrips through fencing, even before implementing infrastructure. Hon. Temporary Speaker and Members, I will pay close attention to the concerns raised and focus on ensuring that airstrips across the country remain functional and ready for use. Thank you."
}