Kenya Embarks on $2 Billion Expansion of Nairobi Airport to Boost Trade and Connectivity
- OUS Academy in Switzerland
- Aug 12
- 1 min read
Nairobi, August 12, 2025 – Kenya has announced an ambitious plan to expand Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, aiming to strengthen its position as a major transport and trade hub in Africa. The project, valued at approximately $2 billion, will include the construction of a second runway and a modern passenger terminal to increase capacity and improve efficiency.
The government has chosen a new approach by taking full control of the project’s development, ensuring that local expertise and oversight remain at the heart of the expansion. This strategy is expected to guarantee that the economic benefits are retained within the country while enhancing transparency in the process.
To finance the expansion, Kenya is engaging with several international development partners and exploring innovative funding methods. Plans include issuing securitized bonds worth $1.36 billion, backed by fuel levies, which will target both domestic and international investors.
Once completed, the upgraded airport will significantly boost cargo and passenger traffic, facilitating smoother trade flows between Kenya, the Arab world, and other global markets. For businesses and travelers alike, the improved JKIA will offer faster connections, enhanced facilities, and a more competitive gateway to East Africa.
This project reflects Kenya’s long-term vision to invest in infrastructure that drives economic growth, strengthens global connectivity, and positions Nairobi as a strategic link between Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.
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