Kakamega Airport (GGM)

Kakamega Airport (GGM) is a regional aviation facility serving the city of Kakamega and the western region of Kenya. Located just a short distance from the city center, the airport is a critical piece of infrastructure for this densely populated and agriculturally rich area. In December 2022, the airport was officially reopened following an KSh 174.4 million rehabilitation project that included major works on the runway, taxiway, and apron, aimed at modernizing the facility and improving its safety standards. The facilities at Kakamega Airport are functional and designed to support domestic regional traffic. While it remains a small airfield compared to the international hub at Kisumu (KIS), the terminal offers essential services for passengers including check-in areas and basic waiting sections. The recent upgrades also included the construction of an engineering office and improved security fencing. The airport's layout is compact, ensuring quick movement for travelers, although commercial amenities such as restaurants and retail shops are currently limited on-site. Scheduled commercial services at GGM were launched in late 2022 by Skyward Express, providing a daily direct link to Nairobi's Wilson Airport (WIL). This service was a major boost for the local economy, facilitating the movement of business travelers, government officials, and academics visiting the nearby Masinde Muliro University. However, as of late 2024, Skyward Express has temporarily suspended its flights to Kakamega due to concerns over the deteriorating condition of the runway. The airport remains active for general aviation and charter flights while further infrastructure improvements are considered. Ground transportation from Kakamega Airport is straightforward, with taxis and local boda-bodas readily available to transport passengers to the city center and the famous Kakamega Forest National Reserve. The forest, a remnant of the ancient Guineo-Congolian rainforest, is a major draw for researchers and eco-tourists. Travelers are advised to confirm the current status of scheduled flights and ground transfers in advance. Despite its current operational challenges, Kakamega Airport remains a vital symbol of the region's connectivity and its potential for future growth.