Lilian Nyiva
The Kenyan government has awarded the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) a KSh154.2 billion contract to modernise Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), marking a major step in the country's efforts to upgrade its main aviation gateway and strengthen its position as a regional transport hub. The contract was formally signed by the Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Teresia Mbaika, and CRBC General Manager Yu Xiaodong in the presence of Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir.
Project Scope
According to the Ministry of Transport, the modernisation project will involve the construction of a new passenger terminal and supporting facilities, rehabilitation and upgrading of existing airport infrastructure, improvements to both airside and landside operations, and enhancements to overall operational efficiency and passenger services. The project is also expected to improve cargo handling capacity and strengthen safety standards at the airport.
Procurement Process
The government says the procurement process followed public procurement laws and regulations. Transport CS Davis Chirchir stated that the process began after the completion of the JKIA Master Plan in February 2026. More than 40 firms reportedly participated in a pre-bid conference held in April before technical and financial evaluations were conducted.
Government's Position
The contract comes after weeks of public debate over the project's cost and procurement process. Government officials have maintained that the project value is approximately KSh154.2 billion, dismissing higher figures circulating publicly. Treasury and Transport officials have said the investment is necessary to address congestion, improve service delivery and prepare JKIA for future passenger growth.
President William Ruto previously announced that construction would begin in July 2026, describing the current state of JKIA as outdated and stressing the need to modernise the country's busiest airport.
Strategic Importance
JKIA is Kenya's largest international airport and serves as a key aviation hub for East and Central Africa. The modernisation project is intended to increase passenger handling capacity, improve operational efficiency, and enhance Kenya's competitiveness as regional airports continue to expand. Once completed, the upgraded facilities are expected to support growing passenger and cargo traffic while improving the overall travel experience.
