Kenya Signs Landmark Deal to Transform Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

The Kenyan government has officially awarded a KSh154.2 billion contract to China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) for the modernization and expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marking one of the largest aviation infrastructure investments in the country's history.

The agreement was signed in Nairobi in the presence of Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, Aviation and Aerospace Development Principal Secretary Teresia Mbaika, and senior CRBC officials. The project is expected to significantly improve JKIA's capacity, efficiency, and competitiveness as East Africa's leading aviation hub.

New Terminal and Infrastructure Upgrades Planned

Under the project, JKIA will receive a new passenger terminal alongside extensive upgrades to existing airport facilities. The modernization program aims to increase the airport's annual passenger handling capacity from the current 7.5 million travelers to approximately 22 million passengers.

Government officials say the expansion will improve passenger experience, strengthen safety standards, boost cargo handling efficiency, and enhance operational performance across the airport. The new terminal alone is expected to accommodate around 10 million passengers annually.

Strengthening Kenya's Position as an Aviation Hub

The project comes at a time when several African nations, including Ethiopia and Rwanda, are investing heavily in airport infrastructure to attract international airlines and travelers. Kenyan authorities believe the JKIA expansion is critical for maintaining Nairobi's status as a regional gateway for business, tourism, and trade.

According to CS Chirchir, the modernization project will enhance Kenya's global aviation competitiveness while supporting long-term economic growth through improved connectivity and logistics services.

Procurement Process and Transparency

The Ministry of Transport stated that the procurement process followed all legal and regulatory requirements. More than 40 companies reportedly participated in the pre-bid conference held earlier this year, with bids evaluated based on both technical qualifications and financial considerations.

The government has also dismissed reports linking the project to firms that did not participate in the tender process, reiterating its commitment to transparency and accountability throughout implementation.

Financing and Project Outlook

The airport expansion is expected to be financed through a structured funding model involving Africa's Trade and Development Bank (TDB) and the African Finance Corporation (AFC), which have been appointed to help arrange financing for the mega project.

Once completed, the upgraded JKIA is expected to rank among Africa's most advanced airports, supporting increased passenger traffic, trade opportunities, and economic development across the region.