Kenya signs $1.2 billion agreement to expand Nairobi airport

International

Major investment aims to triple passenger capacity and strengthen Kenya's role as East Africa's leading aviation hub

Kenya has signed a US$1.2 billion agreement with China Road and Bridge Corporation to expand and modernise Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. The project is designed to significantly increase capacity at the country's main international gateway while supporting Kenya's ambitions to become East Africa's leading transport and logistics hub.

The expansion programme includes a new passenger terminal, upgrades to existing airport infrastructure and operational improvements across the airport.

Capacity to increase to 22 million passengers

According to Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, the project will increase JKIA's annual passenger handling capacity from approximately 7.5 million to 22 million travellers.

“The project scope includes the construction of a new terminal building and associated support facilities, the modernization and upgrading of existing infrastructure, the improvement of airside and landside operations,” Chirchir wrote on X.

Located around 18 kilometres southeast of Nairobi's central business district, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is Kenya's principal international gateway and one of Africa's busiest airports. It plays a key role in regional passenger traffic, tourism, cargo transport and trade.

Financing arrangements move forward

The agreement represents a major milestone for a project that has undergone several revisions and financing discussions in recent years.

Last week, the Kenyan government appointed the Africa Finance Corporation and the Trade and Development Bank to help arrange financing for the airport expansion.

In addition to constructing a new terminal, the project includes the rehabilitation of existing airport facilities and operational upgrades aimed at improving efficiency, reducing congestion and accommodating future growth in passenger and cargo traffic.

Part of Kenya's wider infrastructure strategy

The airport modernisation forms part of President William Ruto's broader infrastructure programme, which focuses on improving national connectivity, supporting economic development and strengthening Kenya's position as the principal gateway to eastern and central Africa.

With the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the government aims to enhance the country's competitiveness as regional demand for air travel continues to grow.