Resolution Reached on Airfare Prices for Mandera-Nairobi Route
Mandera – An Ad hoc committee tasked to assess the status of air transport services in Mandera County delivered its report to Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif on Tuesday.
The report, outlining previous engagements and outcomes, marked a crucial step towards rectifying the issues and concerns over inflated flight ticket prices,
Governor Mohamed Adan, accompanied by the Ad hoc committee, engaged in discussions with airline agents and brokers to explore viable solutions.
The meeting involved key stakeholders, including travel agents, airline representatives, and government officials at both the national and county levels. Public opinions were also considered to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive resolution.
After thorough deliberations, a consensus was reached regarding the maximum price for a one-way air ticket from Mandera to Nairobi. The determined limit stands at Kshs 16,000, ensuring a fair and reasonable cost for travelers on this route.
This decision comes as a response to the longstanding concerns raised by the public regarding exorbitant airfare.
Airlines and agents in Mandera County have been granted a two-day period for further consultation on the agreed-upon pricing structure.
“This timeframe allows for constructive discussions and ensures that all stakeholders have the opportunity to provide input before any concrete actions are taken,” said Governor Adan.
He emphasized the commitment of the committee and all involved parties to establishing fair and transparent practices within the air transport sector.
“The resolution reflects a shared dedication to addressing the concerns of Mandera County residents and ensuring accessibility to air travel at reasonable costs,” he said.
The committee will reconvene to assess the feedback received after the two-day consultation period. Any necessary adjustments or implementations will then be decided based on the collective input of stakeholders.
The meeting is part of a concerted effort to find sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by travelers in Mandera County.
The public has welcomed the resolution as a positive step towards addressing the economic burden imposed by high airfares.
Suleiman Abdiaziz, a resident in the county expressed optimism that the concerted efforts of the committee will lead to lasting improvements in the affordability and accessibility of air travel for the Mandera-Nairobi route.
“As we await the outcome of the consultation period, the resolution stands as a testament to the power of collaborative decision-making in addressing critical issues affecting the community.”
Mandera County is grappling with a dire situation as continuous heavy rainfall, persisting for over 36 hours, has compelled residents to evacuate their homes. The unrelenting downpour has triggered massive flooding, causing widespread damage, uprooting trees, and disrupting normal life.
The overwhelming floods have submerged houses and rendered roads impassable, bringing life to a standstill. The severity of the situation has led to the cessation of business operations in the affected areas. Tragically, the floods have claimed seven lives, with three reported in Elwak town and four in Mandera East.
Several regions within Mandera County, including Mandera East, Mandera West, Mandera North, Mandera South, Kiliwaheri, Arabia, and Lafey sub-counties, are grappling with the aftermath of the devastating floods. Over 25 locations across 11 wards have been affected, with notable areas such as Khalalio, Neboi, Township, Libihiya, Rhamu, Elwak North, Elwak South, Shimbir Fatuma, Alungu Lafey, and Fino bearing the brunt of the disaster.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a concerning forecast, indicating that Mandera County is expected to experience heavy rains exceeding 120mm until the end of January 2024.