Kenya government has signed a 154.2 billion Kenyan shilling (approximately ($1.2 billion) agreement with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), a major Chinese state - owned engineering and construction firm headquartered in Beijing to expand Jommo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), the primary gateway to East Africa serving Nairobi, the capital and largest city of Kenya, located in the Embakasi suburb, approximately 18 kilometres southeast of Nairobi city centre.
The expansion will nearly triple the airport’s annual passenger capacity from 7.5 million to 22 million, an ambitious multi - year project serves to maintain Nairobi’s status as East Africa’s leading aviation hub.
For the development of this major project Kenyan authorities have appointment the Trade and Development Bank (TB) and Africa Finance Corporation with construction expected to take three years.
Funding will be structured around airport - based revenue streams, with the two arrangers tasked with drawing in development finance institutions and commercial banks.
The expansion comes after Kenya was forced to pause the project in 2024 following the cancellation of a deal with India’s Adani Group after its founder’s indictment in the United States.
Key Features of the Expansion and Upgrades:
• New Terminal Construction: A brand - new passenger terminal building with modern support and processing facilities to accommodate millions of new travellers.
• Runway and Airside Enhancements: Rehabilitation and construction of new parallel runways (up to 4.500 metres), expanded aprons, and rapid – exit taxiways to increase airfield capacity.
• Airfield Throughout: Upgraded taxiway system designed to increase aircraft movements from 14 to 63 movements per hour.
• Landside Improvements: Modernization of the airport’s landside access, which includes improved roadways, expanded vehicle parking, and upgraded passenger processing technologies.
• Airport City and Logistics: Features an “Airport City” concept that includes a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) logistics parks, office complexes, and transit hotels.
The move reflects Kenya’s determination to defend its position as East Africa’s leading aviation hub at a time when Ethiopia and Rwanda are investing heavily in new airport infrastructure to attract airlines and travellers.
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