| dc.description.abstract | The purpose of this study was to assess the extent of emergency preparedness at Kisumu airport, especially in light of the foreseen increase in risks due to increased flight operations once the current ongoing infrastructural upgrading activities are completed. This is also against the backdrop of a recent surge in aviation accidents and incidents occurring within the Kenyan airspace that require better preparedness efforts to reduce disaster damage.
The study employed a case study design with the population of interest being the emergency preparedness stakeholders at Kisumu airport. Questionnaires were used to collect data from on aerodrome respondents whereas interviews were used to collect data from selected key informants within and without the aerodrome. Data was analysed both quantitatively through descriptive statistics and qualitatively through themes. The results were presented by use of tables and general statements derived from themes.
The study found out that whilst the aerodrome had put in place some measures to ensure emergency preparedness, it still remained elusive. This was mainly evidenced by failure to undertake regular drills, inadequate resources especially marine rescue and medical aid related, limited community participation, limited collaboration among stakeholders, and insufficiency on adherence to regulations.
The study concluded that though the aerodrome was found to be prepared for emergencies in some aspects, much more still remains to be done. Consequently, to enhance emergency preparedness the organizations concerned are advised to allocate more resources, undertake regular drills, conduct continuous staff and public awareness trainings, strengthen interagency coordination, address staff welfare issues, decentralize decision making, ensure adherence to regulations, establish aerodrome owned marine unit and improve navigation and berthing in Lake Victoria. | en_US |
