The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has firmly rejected claims about secretive agreements with the Adani Group regarding the JKIA modernisation project. KAA confirmed that the government entirely funds the project and that it will strictly follow public procurement laws and procedures.
KAA clarified that any reports suggesting undisclosed dealings with the Adani Group are baseless. “The JKIA modernisation and expansion programme is a Government of Kenya-funded initiative,” KAA said in a statement signed by acting CEO Mohamud Gedi. The Authority emphasized that it will follow all established public-sector guidelines throughout the project.
Transparency Assured Despite Claims
KAA reassured the public of its commitment to transparency during the project. The Authority promised to keep stakeholders and the public informed, offering timely updates on key decisions and progress. KAA remains dedicated to ensuring the project adheres to all regulations and maintains accountability.
Despite the allegations, KAA stressed that the project’s main goal is to improve JKIA’s infrastructure. The planned upgrades will enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and support Kenya’s aviation growth strategy, designed for long-term sustainability in the aviation sector.
Recent reports have attempted to link the Adani Group to the JKIA modernisation project, but KAA has responded directly. The Authority confirmed that the Government of Kenya fully funds the expansion. The project complies with all government regulations. KAA dismissed any suggestions of undisclosed agreements with the Adani Group, labeling them misleading and urging the public to disregard them.
The project, set to begin in June 2026, aims to meet the growing demands of JKIA. Key upgrades include a new terminal, a second runway, and other critical infrastructure improvements. These changes are essential to accommodate the rising passenger numbers, as JKIA currently serves over 8.6 million passengers annually—well above its original capacity of 7.5 million.
Expanding JKIA’s Capacity
The expansion will raise JKIA’s capacity from 7.5 million to 12 million passengers annually. The new terminal will ultimately accommodate up to 15 million passengers per year. The first phase will focus on handling 10 million passengers and will feature four piers and a central processing hall to streamline passenger flows by separating domestic and international passengers.
Additionally, a second 4.8-kilometre runway will be ready by 2027. This new runway will eliminate the vulnerability caused by relying on a single runway, enabling simultaneous take-offs and landings, improving safety and operational efficiency.
Future Vision: Airport City and Diversified Revenue
KAA also plans to develop an Airport City, inspired by leading global aviation hubs. This project will include hotels, logistics parks, and commercial zones to diversify JKIA’s revenue beyond aviation-related charges. The vision aligns with Kenya’s broader economic strategy, aiming to transform JKIA into a world-class aviation hub.
KAA’s commitment to transparency and adherence to public-sector procedures remains unwavering. The public can trust that the JKIA modernisation project will continue as planned—funded by the government and fully compliant with all regulations.
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