NAIROBI, Kenya – The government has taken a major step toward upgrading the country’s busiest airport after signing the contract for the long-awaited Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Modernisation Project.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said he witnessed the signing of the contract between the Government of Kenya and the China Road and Bridge Corporation, marking the beginning of a key national infrastructure investment aimed at transforming the country’s aviation sector.
The agreement was signed by Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika on behalf of the government and CRBC General Manager Yu Xiaodong.
According to Chirchir, the project is designed to expand JKIA’s capacity, improve passenger and cargo handling services, enhance safety standards, and strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
“The JKIA Modernization Project is a strategic undertaking aimed at expanding airport capacity, enhancing safety, improving passenger and cargo services, and strengthening Kenya’s position as a leading regional aviation hub,” the CS said.
The modernization works will include the construction of a new terminal building and supporting facilities, the upgrading of existing airport infrastructure, improvements to airside and landside operations, and measures aimed at increasing operational efficiency and service delivery.
The contract signing comes after the completion of the JKIA Master Plan in February 2026, which laid the foundation for the airport’s expansion and modernization.
Chirchir said the procurement process had been ongoing for the last three months and was conducted in accordance with procurement laws and regulatory requirements.
More than 40 companies participated in a pre-bid conference held in April 2026, where project expectations and the scope of work were outlined before bids were submitted and evaluated.
The Transport Ministry said all proposals were assessed based on technical and financial merit before the final award was made.
The CS emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in implementing the project, describing the modernization as a critical investment in Kenya’s economic future.
“As a Ministry, we remain firmly committed to transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to all required standards as we deliver world-class aviation infrastructure that will position JKIA as a premier gateway to Africa and drive Kenya’s economic growth and competitiveness,” he said.
Also present during the signing ceremony were Moses Wekesa, legal representatives from the Ministry and CRBC, as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Transport, Kenya Airports Authority and the contractor.
The project is expected to significantly boost JKIA’s handling capacity and support Kenya’s ambition of becoming a leading transport, logistics and investment hub on the continent.
