KATA members in Kisumu, led by KATA Western Liaison Grace Ogwa, joined Jambojet in a vibrant stakeholder engagement forum held in the lakeside city, celebrating the airline’s strategic expansion on the Kisumu-Nairobi route.
The event was graced by Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, who underscored the importance of air travel in fostering economic growth and regional integration.
“Great evening with the Jambojet team in Kisumu! Reliable air travel is vital for our city’s growth,” said Governor Nyong’o. “We appreciate Jambojet’s consistent, on-time service that builds trust. I encourage better communication and valuing frequent flyers. Kudos to their amazing crew and thank you for investing in Kisumu!”
The occasion followed Jambojet’s announcement of the acquisition of its ninth aircraft, a Dash 8 Q400, which is expected to boost operations on the Kisumu-Nairobi route. The airline’s CEO, Karanja Ndegwa, confirmed that daily flights will increase from six to seven, with potential for eight on peak days such as Fridays and Sundays.
“Kisumu is our third-largest market after Nairobi and Mombasa. Over the past 10 years, we have transported 1.53 million passengers on this route, 254,000 in the past year alone,” noted Ndegwa, adding that the Kisumu route contributes 17–18% of Jambojet’s annual passenger traffic.
Grace Ogwa, representing KATA members in Western Kenya, lauded Jambojet’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and urged continued collaboration with travel agents to promote tourism and seamless travel experiences.
Jambojet’s efficient operations such as a 25-minute turnaround time at Kisumu International Airport have enabled the airline to maintain an impressive 83% on-time performance rate. The new aircraft will also allow separation of currently combined triangular routes and strengthen direct connections during peak travel days.
Jambojet is also exploring future opportunities through Kisumu International Airport, including potential international routes, as well as continued investment in domestic destinations.
Despite global fluctuations in jet fuel prices, Ndegwa emphasized that there are no plans to increase ticket fares, reiterating the airline’s low-cost model and focus on affordability.
The event closed with renewed optimism among travel agents, county officials, and airline executives, affirming Kisumu’s growing importance as a hub for tourism, commerce, and regional air travel.
