The Government Delivery Unit (GDU) and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) have unveiled detailed timelines for the long-awaited overhaul of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), including the construction of a new runway.
The new runway is expected to be completed by June 2027, improving efficiency, passenger experience, and positioning Kenya as a regional transport hub.
Major Infrastructure Upgrades at JKIA
According to the Acting Head of the Government Delivery Unit, Mr Olando Sitati, the government is fully committed to delivering modern and efficient airport facilities under President William Ruto’s transformation agenda.
The projects are anchored in Kenya Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which prioritize infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth.
“Modern and efficient airports are key to positioning Kenya as a first-class economy by 2050,” Mr Sitati said, noting that the JKIA modernization project will address long-standing operational inefficiencies and congestion challenges.
The upgrade includes the installation of new passenger boarding bridges and ground-handling equipment by June 2026, the construction of a new 4.8-kilometer runway by June 2027, and the development of a world-class passenger terminal by 2029.
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These facilities will increase JKIA’s annual passenger handling capacity, improve turnaround times, and attract more international airlines.
KAA’s Acting Managing Director, Mr Abraham Kiprutto, emphasized that the new runway would enhance safety and operational efficiency.
“The new runway will accommodate larger aircraft, reduce delays caused by traffic congestion, and position JKIA as a modern, competitive airport in the region,” he stated.
Expanding Regional Airports and Airstrips
Beyond JKIA, the GDU and KAA teams are overseeing major upgrades across regional airports and airstrips to strengthen Kenya’s internal connectivity.
The Eldoret International Airport runway is being extended to 3.5 kilometers to handle larger aircraft, while the Kisumu International Airport runway is being widened.
In Malindi, the runway expansion to 2.5 kilometers is underway to enhance tourism access to the coastal region.
Other airstrips under rehabilitation include Kabunde, Lichota, Suneka, Ukunda, Voi, Lokichoggio, Narok, Kilgoris, Bomet, Kerenga, Garissa, Mandera, Nanyuki, and Busia.
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KAA has also identified a site for the proposed Busia Airstrip, with feasibility and design work already in progress.
Strengthening Connectivity and Economic Growth
According to GDU, these high-impact projects aim to boost trade, tourism, and job creation across the country.
The modernization will also decentralize aviation training and maintenance services, enabling more regions to benefit from air transport infrastructure.
“These investments will connect remote regions, stimulate economic activity, and enhance Kenya’s competitiveness within the African aviation market,” Mr Sitati added.
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