The Kenyan government has announced plans to construct a new international airport, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening the country’s aviation capacity and enhancing its global competitiveness.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, speaking at the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Symposium in Nairobi said the state intends to revisit the long-delayed project, describing it as a “strategic priority” for positioning Kenya as a leading air transport hub in the region.
“Those who come in do appreciate that we do not have a modern airport. Our airport got burned in 2013 and we have tried twice to build a new one. But because of our democratic space, we have had so much debate. Now, we are going to make another attempt very shortly,” Chirchir noted.
He stressed that Kenya needs a world-class aviation gateway that reflects its growing economic stature and enhances the experience of international visitors. “We want to become that anchor state that attracts visitors, and when you come, you feel good arriving through the airport.”
Public-Private Partnerships
According to Chirchir, the government will lean heavily on Public-Private Partnerships to finance and deliver the project. The approach is intended to draw on private sector expertise and capital, while ensuring public oversight.
This revival comes despite previous setbacks, such as the cancellation of the Adani Group’s contract for the upgrade of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in November 2024. Political disagreements, regulatory delays, and procurement disputes have historically stalled progress, but Chirchir emphasized that the state is now determined to advance the initiative with urgency, transparency, and broad stakeholder engagement.
If realised, the new airport will complement Kenya’s existing international gateways — JKIA in Nairobi, Moi International Airport in Mombasa, Kisumu International Airport, Eldoret International Airport, and Malindi International Airport. These facilities currently handle a mix of domestic and international flights, providing critical links between Kenya and global markets.
However, rising passenger volumes, cargo growth, and intensified regional competition have placed mounting pressure on the country’s aviation infrastructure, fueling calls for expanded capacity and upgraded services.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, also speaking at the symposium, underscored the government’s determination to adhere to strict timelines, not only for the proposed airport but also for all upcoming large-scale infrastructure projects. He assured investors and the public that the administration will prioritise efficiency and accountability to ensure projects are delivered on schedule.
The proposed airport is expected to play a central role in Kenya’s vision of becoming the region’s premier air transport hub, supporting tourism, trade, and foreign investment while reinforcing the country’s position on the global aviation map.