The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has raised concerns over the proposals by Adani Airport Holdings to lease and modernize Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) from the Kenyan government. The IEK argues that some of the proposals put forth by the Indian firm are not aligned with the immediate priorities of the airport, which currently serves 10 million travelers and is projected to reach 23 million during the proposed 30-year lease period ending in 2054.
IEK President Shammah Kiteme emphasized the need to critically assess the necessity of involving external expertise in all aspects of JKIA’s modernization. “While external expertise and investment can be beneficial, it is essential to evaluate whether the involvement of external parties is necessary for all aspects of modernization. Local engineers and companies could handle many technical aspects, ensuring that the knowledge and benefits remain within the country,” Kiteme stated.
Adani Airport Holdings has proposed a three-phased approach to modernizing JKIA, with phases spanning from 2024-2028, 2029-2035, and 2046-2054. The first phase involves constructing a new terminal with a capacity of 8 million travelers, new aprons and taxiways, refurbishing existing terminals, building a 4-by-4 lane to link the two terminals, and constructing a grade car park, utility block, and City Side Development (CSD) that includes hotels and other commercial establishments.
However, IEK has criticized the focus on City Side Development, which would occupy 30 acres of airport land, arguing that this does not address the immediate operational issues facing JKIA. “The proposal seems to mainly focus on the City Side Development (CSD). There is much focus on the setting aside of 30 acres for the CSD. This will not solve the immediate issues facing the airport, but rather tap into the opportunities that should follow the growth and expansion of the airport,” Kiteme said.
Further, the IEK highlighted that the construction of hotels and malls, which is set to begin almost immediately after the lease is signed, is not an urgent priority. The Institute argues that the proposed developments do not align with the current operational needs of the airport, which include enhancing passenger capacity and improving aviation infrastructure.
The modernization plans also include upgrading current taxiways, constructing remote aircraft parking stands, expanding the main terminal building to accommodate 8 million passengers, and equipping the airside facility with a Category I Instrument Landing System (CAT I ILS). IEK has pointed out the omission of a new runway in Adani’s 30-year management plan, which it believes is a significant oversight.
“The proposal on provision of ILS CAT-I facilities in 2046 is unfortunate. JKIA currently has a CAT-1 ILS, and improving this to CAT II or to CAT III would be more desirable,” Kiteme noted. The Institute has stressed that the modernization of JKIA should prioritize upgrades that enhance safety and operational efficiency rather than commercial real estate developments.
IEK is now calling on the Kenyan government to adopt a more inclusive and transparent approach to the modernization of JKIA and other airport facilities. It emphasizes the importance of involving local engineers in the projects to ensure that the benefits of the upgrades remain within the country. Additionally, the Institute has called for greater transparency in the assessment of JKIA’s revenue, the financial terms of the lease, and the role that Adani Airport Holdings will play in managing these funds.
The Institute’s stance reflects a broader concern that infrastructure projects involving international companies should not only meet immediate operational needs but also support local expertise and long-term national interests. As discussions on JKIA’s lease continue, the IEK’s call for transparency and inclusivity serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing external investments with the development of local capabilities.
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