The government has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Jomo Kenyatta International Airport into a world-class aviation hub, months after public debate over the proposed expansion of the facility by the Adani Group.
The Ministry of Roads and Transport, led by Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, convened a high-level meeting with global infrastructure consultancy Sidara Consultants to kick-start a new strategic master plan for the airport’s long-term expansion.
The initiative seeks to position Nairobi as a leading aviation gateway linking Africa to the rest of the world by enhancing passenger capacity, cargo handling and modern air traffic systems.
Speaking during the meeting, CS Chirchir said the multibillion-dollar project is necessary to address the growing number of travelers using the airport annually.
“This investment is worth pursuing because it will reduce congestion as passenger numbers continue to grow every year. Transparency in the process will be key so that all stakeholders have a say,” Chirchir said.
According to the Ministry, the proposed development will respond to increasing aviation demand, with passenger numbers projected to reach 22.3 million in the coming years.
The project also proposes expanded cargo handling facilities capable of processing up to 860,000 tonnes annually, more than double the current capacity of 390,000 tonnes.
Other planned upgrades include modernized air traffic control systems, improved passenger terminals and expanded support infrastructure aimed at enhancing efficiency, safety and service delivery.
Representatives from Sidara Consultants, led by company executive George Fares, said the firm brings extensive experience in airport master planning and infrastructure development worldwide.
The consultancy has previously been involved in the development of major aviation facilities including Entebbe International Airport, Kigali International Airport and Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
“Sidara is among the world’s leading consultancies in building world-class airports globally. We are looking at a 20-year growth trajectory, and Nairobi is poised to become the next major aviation gateway,” Fares said.
Principal Secretary for Aviation Teresia Mbaika said the strategic plan will guide phased development of the airport over the coming decades.
Beyond aviation infrastructure, the plan proposes the development of an “airport city” featuring commercial zones, logistics hubs and business parks designed to stimulate investment and create employment.
Officials say the expansion will help Kenya remain competitive with emerging regional aviation hubs such as Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and Kigali International Airport.
Once completed, the planned Africa Gateway International Airport is expected to handle more than 25 million passengers annually, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a strategic air transport hub for East and Central Africa.
Authorities say the project aligns with Kenya Vision 2030, the country’s long-term economic blueprint that prioritizes large-scale infrastructure investments to drive growth.
The Ministry of Transport said stakeholder consultations, feasibility studies and environmental assessments will continue in the coming months before the project moves to the construction phase.
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