NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has unveiled an ambitious nationwide programme to upgrade airports across the country, targeting modernisation of facilities, improved passenger experience, and expanded commercial services.
The initiative, announced through a tender notice dated February 3, 2026, will prioritise major aviation hubs including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Moi International Airport (MIA) in Mombasa and Kisumu International Airport (KIA), alongside several regional airports.
Tender documents indicate that KAA is inviting bids from contractors for a wide range of works, including construction, slope stabilisation, installation of digital systems and development of new commercial amenities.
At JKIA, the country’s busiest airport, the authority plans to introduce and manage multiple dining outlets across Terminals 1A, 1D, and 2.
The food facilities will include quick-service restaurants, African cuisine offerings, and coffee shops, targeting both domestic and international travellers.
Terminal 1A serves international flights operated by Kenya Airways and foreign airlines, while Terminal 1D handles domestic traffic. Terminal 2 primarily accommodates low-cost and regional carriers.
In addition to dining services, JKIA passengers are set to benefit from a new airport taxi application. According to KAA, the digital platform is designed to enhance safety, transparency, and convenience in ground transport, an area that has previously drawn complaints from travellers.
Moi International Airport in Mombasa is also slated for significant upgrades. Planned works include slope stabilisation, construction of a garden-style restaurant, and improvements to mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning systems.
The coastal airport plays a key role in supporting tourism and cargo operations in the region.
Kisumu International Airport, which serves western Kenya and the Lake Region, will undergo slope stabilisation and land reclamation projects. The authority also plans to introduce baggage wrapping services to improve passenger convenience and security.
Beyond physical infrastructure, KAA is pushing a digital transformation agenda. The authority will roll out an electronic document and records management system (EDRMS) across all airports to streamline administration, improve efficiency, and enhance accountability.
Several regional airports are also included in the upgrade plan. Ukunda, Malindi, Wilson, Nanyuki, and Isiolo airports will receive improvements such as advertising media installations, enhanced ground handling services, and upgraded taxi systems.
KAA says the upgrades are part of a broader strategy to align Kenya’s aviation infrastructure with global standards, improve competitiveness, and support the country’s role as a regional transport hub.
The developments come against the backdrop of government plans to construct a new international airport to ease congestion at JKIA.
President William Ruto said on January 17 that construction would begin in April or early May, ending years of uncertainty over the project.
“The construction will either kick off in April or early May,” Ruto said while speaking in Nyeri.
The proposed airport, estimated to cost Sh264 billion, will feature additional terminals, runways, and aircraft bays. It follows the collapse of the Adani-backed JKIA expansion deal in 2024, which had stalled earlier efforts to expand capacity.
