Government Questioned on Ukunda Airstrip Compensation Delays

The Government has been questioned about why Ukunda locals in Kwale County who paved the way for an airstrip expansion are yet to receive compensation.

Nominated Senator Raphael Chimera, stated that those affected by the development of Ukunda Airstrip are still waiting for compensation.

He is seeking a statement from the Standing Committee on Land, Environment, and Natural Resources.

“State why the National Land Commission has not compensated residents of Mkokoni Village in Ukunda, Kwale County whose land was acquired by the government for the purposes of expansion of Ukunda Airstrip by the Kenya Airports Authority,” he said.

Chimera further requests that the government detail any efforts taken by the National Land Commission and the Kenya Airport Authority to guarantee that Kokwani people receive compensation in a timely manner and specify the timelines for such compensation.

Baringo Senator William Cheptumo said that compensation by the government has been a big challenge in this country.

“When you acquire land through compulsory acquisition, it means you will have factored in compensation in the budget. I sometimes wonder where the money goes to because at the point of acquiring the land, the money is available for compensation, but after some time, the money disappears and Kenyans suffer,” he said.

Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogola said the land to be used for the expansion must be valued properly as per the market rates.

“As I have said, the property is not only limited to the houses,” she said.

Ogola sought the relevant authorities to show up and provide fair compensation for Ukunda Airstrip so that the people might receive what is rightfully theirs.

Ukunda Airstrip is a small airfield near Diani Beach. The airport serves the local areas of Diani, Tiwi, and Msambweni.

It extends its service from Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).