Gisenyi Airstrip Set for Re-Opening as Final Preparations Near Completion

Preparations for the re-opening of Gisenyi Airstrip in Rubavu District have entered their final stage, raising expectations that air services to the western lakeside town could resume soon, according to reporting by The New Times. Rubavu Mayor Prosper Mulindwa confirmed that rehabilitation works, which began in 2025, are nearing completion. Authorities are finalising regulatory and operational requirements before the facility becomes fully operational. “ 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 of Gisenyi Airstrip in Rubavu District have entered their final stage, raising expectations that air services to the western lakeside town could resume soon, according to reporting by The New Times. Rubavu Mayor Prosper Mulindwa confirmed that rehabilitation works, which began in 2025, are nearing completion. Authorities are finalising regulatory and operational requirements before the facility becomes fully operational. “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.” The rehabilitation works include runway markings, perimeter fencing, and installation of aircraft guidance equipment to ensure safe aircraft movement, approach, and landing. While physical works are almost done, Mulindwa said authorities are also revising air routes and processing legal and regulatory documentation in collaboration with relevant institutions. “These processes are progressing smoothly, and so far there are no major challenges that could hinder the re-opening,” Leaders expect the re-opening to stimulate tourism and economic activity in Rubavu, one of Rwanda’s leading leisure and conference destinations due to its location along the shores of Lake Kivu. According to the mayor, improved air connectivity will attract tourists and business travellers who prefer faster transport options over the longer road journey from Kigali. “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 previously faced delays largely due to insecurity in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Rubavu borders Goma, and aircraft operating in shared airspace must comply with strict safety requirements. “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 noted. Residents near the airstrip have welcomed the development, expressing hope for increased business opportunities and improved livelihoods. “We have learned about the re-opening and expansion project, and this is good news for us and our neighbours,” said Ishimwe Emerance. “Many people will benefit, especially through increased business opportunities, rising property values and the overall development of the town.” She added. As the final regulatory clearances are processed, anticipation is building in Rubavu. For many, the re-opening of Gisenyi Airstrip represents more than restored infrastructure  it signals renewed economic momentum for one of Rwanda’s most scenic destinations.