The government has taken another major step to modernize Kenya’s main international gateway after the government signed an engineer-consultant contract for the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Modernisation Project.
Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir witnessed the signing on Thursday, marking the start of the project’s implementation phase. The initiative aims to reshape JKIA into a world-class aviation hub that can handle Kenya’s rising passenger and cargo demand.
Under the agreement, Dar Al-Handasah Consultants has been appointed to oversee major components of the work, including design reviews, project management, contract administration, and construction supervision. The firm will guide the redesign and expansion process to ensure the airport meets international aviation standards.
After the signing, Chirchir described the contract as a key milestone in the government’s long-term plans to modernise Kenya’s busiest airport and strengthen the country’s standing as a leading air travel destination in Africa.
“I witnessed the signing of the Engineer-Consultant Contract for the JKIA Modernisation Project, marking another major milestone in our journey to transform Jomo Kenyatta International Airport into a world-class aviation hub,” Chirchir said.
He said the consultant’s technical expertise will play a crucial role in ensuring the project delivers a modern, efficient, safe, and sustainable airport that meets global standards.
“The contract appoints Dar Al-Handasah Consultants to undertake design review, project management, contract administration, and construction supervision for the proposed design, development, and modernisation of JKIA. Their expertise will be instrumental in delivering a modern, efficient, safe, and sustainable airport that meets global standards,” he added.
Project Expected to Boost Capacity and Efficiency
The JKIA modernisation project, Chirchir said, is expected to improve the passenger experience, raise operational efficiency, and expand the airport’s capacity to handle increasing air traffic and cargo volumes. He noted that the work also supports Kenya’s wider infrastructure agenda, aimed at strengthening regional and international connectivity.
Chirchir said the signing marks the start of a critical implementation phase as the government moves to deliver an airport that can compete with top aviation hubs across Africa and beyond.
“This marks the beginning of a critical implementation phase as we accelerate the delivery of a modern JKIA that will strengthen Kenya’s position as Africa’s premier aviation gateway and regional air cargo hub,” Chirchir said.
He said the investment goes beyond upgrading airport infrastructure. He noted that it is expected to spur economic growth by strengthening trade, tourism, and investment, while also creating jobs across multiple sectors.
“Beyond enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency, this investment will boost trade, tourism, connectivity, and create new opportunities for economic growth and job creation,” he said.
He added that JKIA remains Kenya’s largest and busiest airport, serving as the country’s main international gateway and one of the region’s key aviation hubs. He said the planned modernisation will help the airport accommodate future growth while supporting Kenya’s goal of becoming a leading hub for aviation, logistics, and commerce.
