by Celestine Chacon

The government is pressing ahead with an ambitious aviation development agenda, with plans underway to build at least 35 new airstrips.

The aviation development plan was outlined by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who this week commissioned two regional airstrips.

The government has already upgraded and built new airstrips at Port Kaituma, Baramita, Paruima, Phillipai, Eteringbang, Aishalton, Paramakatoi and Lethem.
 
At Thursday’s commissioning of the Aishalton airstrip, the President disclosed that the government will soon invite Expressions of Interest for the financing and construction of more than 30 additional airstrips.
 
“We’re planning an international airport in region nine we’re planning a municipal airport at Rose Hall, Canje in region six. In Region One we’re planning the construction of Mabaruma, the rehabilitation and extension of Port Kaituma and the upgrade of many other airports,” the president stated.

The president emphasised that enhanced aviation infrastructure is critical for economic growth, improved delivery of health and emergency services, and greater integration of hinterland communities into national development.

“We’re on a journey in the aviation sector that will lay the foundation for the next one hundred years of development in the country, that is what we’re doing” he said.

Among the areas earmarked for new airstrips are Karasabai, Anna Regina, Kaikan, Jawalla and Kwakwani.
 
In addition, the government has announced plans to construct an International Airport in Region Nine and a Municipal Airport at Rose Hall, Region Six.