Cabinet Secretary Meets with Kenya Association of Air Operators

Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, earlier today held a consultative session with the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO). The CS was accompanied by the Principal Secretary, State Department for Transport, Mohamed Daghar, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Board Chairman, Hon. Caleb Kositany and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) Director General Emile Arao.

During the meeting, CS Murkomen pledged the Ministry's dedication to reforming the aviation sector. He expressed appreciation for KAAO's proposals, which will be instrumental in shaping these reforms. Key areas of focus include the development of a National Aviation Policy which will provide a roadmap for the sector's growth and Master Plans for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport which will ensure efficient operations and cater to future needs. The Government also plans to establish an Airstrips Fund. This initiative will see dedicated funding allocated to maintaining airstrips and aerodromes across the country, bolstering regional connectivity.

Recognizing the importance of safeguarding airspace around airports, Murkomen also directed the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to draft legislation that curbs development in these zones. This will prevent obstacles that could hinder the aviation industry's progress.

Aviation industry players at the meeting acknowledged the positive impact of tax reforms implemented by President William Ruto’s administration, saying the reforms have attracted more investors, leading to a rise in aircraft registrations and increasing job opportunities for young Kenyans.

The Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the government's commitment to streamline regulations and processes in the aviation sector, to maximise its contribution to the country's economic growth.