JKIA modernisation moves into implementation phase as consultant contract signed

Kenya has taken another significant step towards the modernisation of the country's main international airport after the government signed an Engineer-Consultant Contract for the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Modernisation Project.

The contract, witnessed by Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport Davis Chirchir on Thursday, marks the beginning of the implementation phase of a project aimed at transforming JKIA into a world-class aviation hub capable of supporting Kenya's growing passenger and cargo demands.

Under the agreement, Dar Al-Handasah Consultants has been appointed to oversee key aspects of the project, including design review, project management, contract administration and construction supervision. The consultancy firm will guide the execution of the airport's redesign and expansion to ensure it meets international aviation standards.

Speaking after witnessing the signing, Chirchir described the agreement as a major milestone in the government's long-term plan to modernise Kenya's busiest airport and strengthen the country's position as a leading aviation destination on the continent.

"I witnessed the signing of the Engineer-Consultant Contract for the JKIA Modernisation Project, marking another major milestone in our journey to transform Jomo Kenyatta International Airport into a world-class aviation hub," said Chirchir.

He said the consultant's technical expertise would be critical in ensuring the project delivers a modern, efficient, safe and sustainable airport capable of meeting global standards.

"The contract appoints Dar Al-Handasah Consultants to undertake design review, project management, contract administration, and construction supervision for the proposed design, development, and modernisation of JKIA. Their expertise will be instrumental in delivering a modern, efficient, safe, and sustainable airport that meets global standards," he added.

The JKIA modernisation project is expected to improve passenger experience, increase airport operational efficiency and expand the facility's capacity to handle growing air traffic and cargo volumes. It also forms part of Kenya's broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at enhancing regional and international connectivity.

According to the Transport Cabinet Secretary, the signing ushers in a critical implementation stage as the government accelerates efforts to deliver a modern airport capable of competing with leading aviation hubs across Africa and beyond.

"This marks the beginning of a critical implementation phase as we accelerate the delivery of a modern JKIA that will strengthen Kenya's position as Africa's premier aviation gateway and regional air cargo hub," Chirchir said.

He said the investment extends beyond airport infrastructure, saying it is expected to stimulate economic growth by boosting trade, tourism and investment while creating employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

"Beyond enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency, this investment will boost trade, tourism, connectivity, and create new opportunities for economic growth and job creation," he said.

JKIA is Kenya's largest and busiest airport, serving as the country's primary international gateway and one of the most important aviation hubs in East Africa. The planned modernisation is expected to position the airport to accommodate future growth while supporting Kenya's ambitions of becoming a leading regional centre for aviation, logistics and commerce.