Kilifi: Kilifi North Member of the National Assembly Owen Baya has urged the National Government to prioritize the expansion of the Malindi Airport, highlighting its importance for revitalizing tourism and unlocking economic opportunities in the North Coast region. Speaking at the Marafa Vocational Training Centre in Magarini Sub County, Baya emphasized that an expanded airport would be instrumental in increasing the number of international tourists visiting the area.

According to Kenya News Agency, Baya, who also serves as the National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader, stated that the airport’s expansion would facilitate direct flights from Europe, which is Malindi’s primary tourism market. This, in turn, would bolster tourism numbers and help rejuvenate the local economy, which has historically relied heavily on the sector. He pointed out that the decline in infrastructure and hotel closures have adversely affected Malindi’s economy, and improving access through airport expansion is a crucial step towards recovery.

Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Mbetsa supported Baya’s stance, noting that Kilifi is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Coast region and requires improved connectivity to compete on a global scale. Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, who was present at the event, affirmed the government’s commitment to restoring Malindi as a key tourism hub in Kenya. She expressed her intention to collaborate with the Ministry of Roads and Infrastructure to prioritize the airport’s expansion.

County Commissioner Josphat Biwott addressed the challenges hindering the airport’s expansion, particularly the issue of land acquisition. He explained that squatters occupying private land earmarked for the project have created obstacles. Despite compensation efforts, some squatters have taken legal action, complicating the process. Biwott stressed the importance of resolving these land issues to attract investors and facilitate the airport’s expansion.

Currently, Malindi Airport handles only domestic flights, necessitating international tourists to travel through Mombasa or Nairobi. Local leaders argue that a modern, expanded airport would not only serve tourists but also enhance regional trade and investment, thereby contributing to the broader economic development of Kilifi County and the Coast region.