Adani Group Proposes Major Upgrades for Nairobi's JKIA

The Adani Group has submitted an investment proposal to the Kenya Airports Authority for upgrading Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The plan includes a new passenger terminal, second runway, and facility refurbishments. The proposal is under review per the Public Private Partnerships Act 2021 and requires various government approvals.

Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) announced on Wednesday that it has received an investment proposal from the Adani Group aimed at upgrading Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

Under the public-private partnership, Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) has submitted this proposal. Currently managing seven airports in India, AAHL is also developing the Navi Mumbai airport.

JKIA Managing Director and CEO Henry Ogoye stated that the proposal followed the Kenyan government's approval of a medium-term investment plan. This plan includes upgrading the passenger terminal, runway, taxiway, and apron at Nairobi’s main airport.

Ogoye noted, “Kenya Airports Authority received an investment proposal under the Public Private Partnerships Act 2021 from Adani Airport Holdings Limited, a key airport operator, to invest in a new passenger terminal building, second runway, and the refurbishment of existing facilities at JKIA.”

Built in 1978, JKIA is a strategic national asset whose ageing infrastructure poses a threat to regional competitiveness. The investment requirement is significant and cannot be funded under the current fiscal constraints without private funding.

AAHL's proposal will undergo rigorous technical, financial, and legal reviews in compliance with the Public Private Partnerships Act 2021. The project agreement will involve stakeholder engagement and need approvals from the National Treasury, Attorney General, and Cabinet.

Ogoye assured staff that no jobs are at risk. He also assured the airport business community and operators that the expanded facility would create additional business opportunities and benefits.

The Adani Group, a diversified conglomerate, has extensive plans to expand its airport operations globally.