The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has won an international award after outshining African airports. JKIA was recognized as the African Cargo Airport of the Year at the STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo.
The award ceremony took place on Thursday, February 20, night at the Serena Hotel in Nairobi, as part of the Air Cargo Africa and Transport Logistics Africa 2025 conference, a key event highlighting innovations and excellence within the air cargo industry.
The award recognized JKIA’s performance in cargo infrastructure, systems, and services, as well as its commitment to excellence in air transport services.
The African Cargo Airport of the Year award gives JKIA the impetus to compete against some of the most established and busiest cargo airports on the continent.
JKIA Named African Cargo Airport of the Year at STAT Times Awards
Dr. Rose Koros, General Manager of JKIA, received the award on behalf of the airport, accompanied by Jacob Bwana, Manager of Cargo, and Debra Ondaba, Manager of Product and Brand.
In her speech, Koros expressed her gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing JKIA’s crucial role in driving trade and logistics across the continent.
She also highlighted the airport’s commitment to operational excellence and its continuous efforts to enhance cargo handling capabilities.
Also Read: JKIA to Undergo New Infrastructure Upgrade After Cabinet Approval
“JKIA’s win underscores its status as one of Africa’s busiest and most efficient cargo hubs. In 2024 alone, the airport handled an impressive 112,000 tons of cargo in the first quarter, reflecting its critical role in supporting regional and international trade,” read a statement from the Kenya Airports Authority in part.
“The airport has been instrumental in handling high-value exports such as fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and specialty goods, which make up 80% of Africa’s air cargo exports.”
This recognition comes amidst significant growth in Africa’s air cargo industry, driven by initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which has boosted intra-African trade by 25% and increased transport demand by 50%.
JKIA’s strategic location and robust infrastructure have positioned it as a key player in meeting this growing demand.
About STAT International Awards
The STAT Times International Awards for Excellence in Air Cargo are the premier accolades in the air cargo industry, recognizing outstanding contributions, innovations, and leadership.
These prestigious awards celebrate excellence and aim to inspire continued innovation and growth within the air cargo community.
Each year, award organizers bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to acknowledge the achievements of those who have made a significant impact.
From pioneering technologies to exceptional service standards, the awards span various categories, highlighting excellence across the global air cargo landscape.
This is not the first time JKIA has clinched the award. In October last year, JKIA, East Africa’s busiest airport, was crowned Africa’s leading airport at the 2024 World Travel Awards.
JKIA edged out six other airports across the African countries. These include Cape Town International Airport (South Africa), Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport (Morocco) and Julius Nyerere International Airport (Tanzania).
Others include the Kigali International Airport (Rwanda), King Shaka International Airport, Durban (South Africa) and O.R. Tambo International Airport (South Africa).
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