Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has firmly backed the government’s initiative to seek a foreign investor for the modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Chirchir explained that financial constraints are the primary challenge hindering the facility’s modernization, which is essential for improving its efficiency and capacity.
He noted that JKIA, in operation for over 30 years, needs an upgrade to accommodate the rising number of flights and cargo while maintaining its regional competitiveness.
“The main issue has been securing funding,” Chirchir said, referencing past attempts to enhance the airport, including the Green Field Terminal project initiated in 2012.
He acknowledged the facility’s current limitations, such as recent roof leaks during the El Niño period, which he described as an embarrassment for the country.
Chirchir emphasized the need for a new investment to upgrade the airport, which would enable it to handle up to four million visitors annually, aligning with standards seen in other developing nations.
He highlighted the importance of modernizing the airport to retain Kenya’s status as a major regional aviation hub and attract more customers.
The Kenyan government has already engaged the Indian firm Adani Group to redevelop JKIA.
However, this move has faced opposition from some Kenyans and aviation workers, leading to a major work boycott on Tuesday that disrupted key services.
Chirchir noted that the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act permits the government to collaborate with private investors on significant infrastructure projects.
He described Adani’s proposal as a Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP), emphasizing that negotiations focus on crucial parameters, including the debt-equity ratio, to ensure it remains manageable.
Originally designed to serve about 2.5 million passengers annually, JKIA now accommodates over 6.5 million passengers.
Aircraft movements have also increased to over 72,700 per year, with projections indicating a rise to over 195,000 by 2030.
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