Govt signs JKIA modernisation project contract with Chinese company
By Francis Muli, June 23, 2026The government has signed a contract to modernise Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), paving the way for a major infrastructure upgrade aimed at boosting passenger capacity, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional aviation hub.
The contract was signed on behalf of the government by Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika and Mr. Yu Xiaodong, General Manager of China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), during a ceremony witnessed by Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
Describing the project as a major national infrastructure investment, Chirchir said the modernization programme is designed to expand the airport’s capacity, enhance safety standards, improve passenger and cargo services, and reinforce JKIA’s status as a leading gateway to 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,” Chirchir said.
According to the CS, the project will involve the construction of a new terminal building and supporting facilities, modernization and upgrading of existing infrastructure, improvements to both airside and landside operations, and measures aimed at enhancing overall operational efficiency and service delivery.
The signing marks a key milestone in efforts to transform Kenya’s busiest airport into a world-class aviation facility capable of meeting growing passenger and cargo demand.
Chirchir revealed that the procurement process has been underway for the past three months following the completion of the JKIA Master Plan in February 2026.
More than 40 companies participated in a pre-bid conference held in April 2026, where prospective contractors were briefed on the project’s scope and requirements.
He said the procurement process was conducted in full compliance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements, with all submissions evaluated based on both technical and financial merit.
“The process was conducted in full compliance with applicable procurement laws and regulatory requirements, with all submissions evaluated on technical and financial merit,” he said.
Once completed, the upgraded airport is expected to improve passenger experience, strengthen cargo handling capacity and enhance Kenya’s competitiveness in the regional and global aviation market.
Chirchir reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency and accountability in implementing the project.
“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 Kenya Airports Authority Managing Director Eng. Moses Wekesa, legal representatives from the Ministry and CRBC, as well as senior officials from the Ministry, CRBC and KAA.