The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has clarified concerns following the circulation of a video showing a convoy of SUVs accessing the restricted airside area of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
In a statement on December 2, KAA said the footage, recorded on October 8, 2025, captured the official motorcade of the Prime Minister of an African country, which arrived at 17:07 to attend the 24th COMESA Summit in Nairobi.
The summit brought together several Heads of State and senior leaders from COMESA member states. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister was officially received by a Cabinet Secretary.
“Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) would like to address recent online reactions concerning a video showing a convoy of SUVs accessing the restricted airside area of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) tarmac,” read part of the statement.
KAA confirmed that all airside movements for the VVIP strictly adhered to established security protocols and regulations reserved for state and diplomatic dignitaries.
The authority noted that such procedures are standard practice at JKIA during international summits and fully comply with national and international aviation security regulations.
The clarification comes amid widespread online speculation about the unusual presence of multiple SUVs on the tarmac.
“Such protocols are standard at JKIA for international summits and comply fully with aviation security standards, prioritizing both operational integrity and dignitary safety,” ended the statement.
Mixed Reactions From Kenyans
Kenyans took to social media after a video emerged showing a convoy of powerful SUVs driving onto the JKIA tarmac to pick up an unidentified VIP.
The level of access is typically reserved for the highest-ranking state or diplomatic officials.
Joseph M. Kagiri commented: “The guy who bought Kenya has finally landed to pick it.”
Jimmy Mbugus expressed concern: “JKIA might lose its high status due to its suspicious activities.”
Also Read: KAA Issues Travel Advisory for Passengers Using JKIA and Wilson Airport
Speculation of the VVIP was wild with John Gitau asking: “Could it be Hemedi wa Sudan?”
Michael Abu noted: “The car with Sudanese plates.”
Meanwhile, John Malombe humorously suggested: “Adani coming for his airport.”
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KAA VIP Terminal
In 2024, the Kenya Airports Authority launched a tender for the development and management of a new Commercially Important Persons (CIP) Terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The initiative aimed to elevate VIP services at Kenya’s busiest airport.
According to a KAA notice, the tender invited expressions of interest (EOIs) from qualified firms keen on undertaking the project.
The new terminal was set to offer exclusive, premium facilities catering to high-profile travelers, including business executives, government officials, and dignitaries.
This project formed part of KAA’s wider efforts to modernize airport infrastructure, enhance service quality, and bring Kenya’s aviation facilities in line with global standards, particularly for VIP passengers transiting through JKIA.
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