Mandera Residents Protest, Reject Ruto’s Airport Project
Mandera locals have vigorously protested the planned construction of a new airport in Mandera East, claiming it breaches their constitutional rights.
President William Ruto originally announced the airport project during a recent visit to the region, where he highlighted ambitions to increase infrastructure development in northern Kenya.
According to the administration, the proposed airport will promote economic growth, boost transportation networks, and attract investment to the region.
However, Mandera residents now claim that the project was launched without proper consultation and consent, as required by Kenya’s Constitution.
Residents of Mandera have opposed the government’s planned airport construction in Mandera East, accusing authorities of violating constitutional requirements on public participation. The project, announced by President William Ruto during a recent regional visit, aims to boost… pic.twitter.com/fG1P0gtnTA
— Nyakundi Report (@NyakundiReport) February 28, 2026
They stated that the site designated for airport building is a crucial grazing ground for pastoral communities whose livelihoods rely only on livestock.
“Today, we are here to oppose the planned construction of an airport on our land. We will not accept it,” said one of the residents.
“Whether they construct an airport or a military base, we will not accept it. We will not give out our land for an airport.
“This is our grazing land. As a community, we have all agreed that we will not allow the construction of an airport here,” he added.
The residents emphasized that the land in question is communal property, and that any development impacting such land must involve open debate and fair recompense.
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The neighbors urged President Ruto’s administration to halt the airport project until serious consultations were held and their concerns addressed.
“Our community sees no tangible benefits from this project. We demand that we urge the government to listen to our voices and respect our rights,” they demanded.
The latest development comes only two weeks after Ruto directed the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to oversee the construction of a new stadium and airport in Mandera County.
Speaking at the NYOTA Capital Disbursement event on February 12, the Head of State said that the airport project will include a terminal building, with work expected to begin in April of this year.
Mandera Residents Protest, Reject Ruto’s Airport Project
