Preparations for the re-opening of Gisenyi Airstrip in Rubavu District have entered their final stage, local authorities have confirmed, raising expectations that air services to the lakeside town could resume soon. Rubavu Mayor Prosper Mulindwa said rehabilitation works aimed at restoring the long-inactive airstrip have been ongoing since 2025 and are now nearing completion. ALSO READ: Rwandair to start Kigali - Gisenyi flights The works include runway markings, perimeter fencing and the installation of aircraft guidance equipment to ensure safe aircraft movement, approach and landing. “We had initially expected the airstrip to be operational by December 2025,” Mulindwa said in an exclusive interview with The New Times. “Preparations for the re-opening began in 2025, focusing on upgrading key infrastructure to meet safety and operational standards.” He noted that while most of the physical works are almost complete, authorities are also finalising non-physical requirements, including revising air routes and processing legal and regulatory documentation in collaboration with relevant institutions. ALSO READ: New Gisenyi market opens after years of delays “These processes are progressing smoothly, and so far there are no major challenges that could hinder the re-opening,” Mulindwa said. The mayor expressed optimism that the re-opening of the airstrip will help boost tourism and economic activity in Rubavu District, which is one of Rwanda’s leading leisure and conference destinations due to its location on the shores of Lake Kivu. He explained that some tourists and business travellers prefer air transport to save time, especially those with tight schedules who find road travel from Kigali to Rubavu relatively long. “Once the airstrip re-opens, we expect an increase in visitor numbers, particularly among tourists who prefer air travel over road transport,” Mulindwa said. The re-opening of the facility has previously faced delays, largely due to insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, given Rubavu’s proximity to Goma. “The insecurity in the neighbouring country was one of the key challenges delaying the re-opening of the airstrip, considering its close proximity to the border,” Mulindwa said, noting that aircraft operating in shared airspace must meet strict safety requirements. Residents living near the airstrip have welcomed the development, expressing hope that it will stimulate local growth and improve livelihoods. “We have learned about the re-opening and expansion project, and this is good news for us and our neighbours,” said Ishimwe Emerance, a resident. “Many people will benefit, especially through increased business opportunities, rising property values and the overall development of the town.”
