His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali recently commissioned the new 3,000‑foot Karasabai Airstrip in Region Nine, which he described as a transformative investment that strengthens connectivity and improves the quality of life of residents.
The President underscored that the upgraded facility will eliminate the longstanding challenges of accessing the village during floods and will now allow medical evacuations at any time of day or night. He recalled that only months ago, pilots were forced to reduce weight or abandon flights due to poor conditions, but today Karasabai can accommodate full‑capacity landings.
President Ali emphasised that the airstrip is not a standalone project but part of a wider programme of development. He noted that the new facility will enhance agriculture and open up opportunities for tourism, while also supporting emergency medical supply delivery through drones and enabling weekly scheduled flights. “Already, the Toshao and the leadership of this region have identified peanuts, ginger, onion, and coffee as major target crops.”
The President added that private sector partners are ready to collaborate with local farmers to expand production.
The $1.53 billion investment includes two taxiways to improve operations and ensure safer aircraft movement. In addition, the Government is working with the community to install a 20‑tonne blast freezer to preserve meat and other produce for transport to Georgetown, while expanding coffee and food production to optimise value creation.
President Ali also linked the commissioning to broader social investments. He highlighted the ‘Because We Care’ cash grant programme, pension and transportation grants, and the expansion of healthcare services in Region Nine.
These accomplishments he noted will be further strengthened by the new airstrip, which expands access and accelerates delivery of services.
The President stressed that the airstrip represents both hope and prosperity for Karasabai and nearby communities.