MAF has launched a new air route to serve the Turkana region of northern Kenya, supporting organisations bringing essential services to isolated communities.
The route is not just for transporting cargo but also for connecting people to hope. Apart from delivering medical supplies, educational resources, and hygiene kits, MAF will also transport personnel who will make a lasting impact, including missionaries, medics, church leaders and humanitarian workers.
The relaunch of the Turkana shuttle is driven by the desire to serve the remote communities in Turkana County
“For years, Last Mile partners have faced challenges moving from their communities to towns like Lodwar due to impassable roads and poor security along the way. With the introduction of the shuttle, we believe that partners using MAF services will be able to reach the remote communities they serve more quickly and safely.’’
On the first flight, MAF transported passengers to Nairokotome and Illaret. MAF has partnered with Sign of Hope who work to support local communities regarding health, nutrition, and emergency response. Sign of Hope is running two projects, one in Turkana North on emergency response and the other in Illaret, Marsabit county, where they work with health and nutrition.
Since 2018, MAF and Sign of Hope have been partners in several projects. Earlier this year, they worked together in the flood response for families affected by the floods.
They have also worked with MAF in health emergency response, such as the malaria outbreak in Illaret. MAF assisted in transporting nets and drugs in these affected areas.
We are currently working with emergency response on the Turkana side. MAF starting the trips in other northern parts of Kenya will be more helpful since we usually need food items, medical assistance, and hygiene items. MAF will be able to supply those items
Bringing these items by road is often a challenge because of security risks. Depending on the road's condition, it may also take longer for these items to be delivered. During rainy seasons, the roads usually could be impassable.
Using the road can, at times, be long and tedious. The relaunching of this route from Nairobi to Lodwar will fill the gap.
This will enable the organisation and its partners to respond in a timely manner to any emergencies that the communities may need help with.
Staff serving the area can use the shuttles when coming to work or returning home to shorten their journey time.