A photograph showing a private airport located at the core of Northlands City, linked to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has sparked division among Kenyans.
The structure, observable through Google satellites at coordinates 1°11'29"S 36°58'42"E, is designated as Northlands Aerodrome and characterized as a domestic airport.
The airport features a fully operational runway strip capable of accommodating private planes and jets. Positioned at the far end of the runway strip is an unmarked structure presumed to be a hangar.
A portion of Kenyans extended congratulations to the former President for acquiring his private airport, acknowledging it as a commendable investment and one of the most valuable assets to possess.
Reactions From Kenyans
The construction of a private airstrip at Northlands Estate on the eastern outskirts of Nairobi by former President Uhuru Kenyatta has ignited controversy and drawn criticism. Numerous individuals have raised concerns about the justification for such a lavish and exclusive facility, in the country where most people grapple with poverty and lack of fundamental infrastructure.
A plausible rationale for this choice could be the pursuit of convenience and privacy. As the former head of state for the country, Uhuru Kenyatta frequently undertakes official duties and personal journeys. The presence of a private airstrip at his residence would enable him to circumvent the congested and sometimes disorderly Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the primary airport serving the capital. This move would not only be a time-saving measure but also guarantee a more seamless and secure travel experience for both him and his family.
Moreover, opting to build a private airstrip at Northlands Estate might be interpreted as a demonstration of status. Being a prosperous and influential individual, Uhuru Kenyatta could have aimed to exhibit his affluence and authority by possessing a personal airstrip. Such a choice could enhance his standing and image within his social circle and the broader public, reinforcing his role as a prominent figure in Kenyan society.
Another factor behind the decision to build the private airstrip could be linked to security considerations. Given his high-profile status, Uhuru Kenyatta might have harbored concerns about his safety and that of his family. Establishing a private airstrip within his estate would afford him greater control over access to his property and regulate the individuals permitted to use the airstrip for take-offs and landings. This approach would also furnish him with a more secure mode of transportation, enabling him to sidestep public airports with a potentially higher risk of security breaches.
Detractors contend that the creation of a private airstrip at Northlands Estate is unwarranted and could have been more judiciously allocated for the enhancement of public infrastructure. Kenya grapples with substandard roads, insufficient healthcare facilities, and other fundamental amenities. The substantial financial resources earmarked for the airstrip's construction could have been redirected to tackle these urgent and pervasive issues.
