The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has welcomed President William Ruto’s New Year announcement on plans to construct a modern, world-class airport at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) beginning in 2026, describing the project as a transformative investment in Kenya’s aviation sector and regional connectivity.
In a statement following the President’s address, KAA said the planned development will strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading aviation hub in East and Central Africa, while addressing mounting pressure on existing infrastructure.
The authority noted that JKIA handled about 8.6 million passengers in 2025 against a design capacity of 7.5 million, a gap that underscores the urgency for expansion to support projected growth in passenger and cargo traffic.
KAA described the planned facility as a “modern, world-class airport”, saying it will significantly enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience at the country’s busiest airport.
The authority said the sustained growth in passenger numbers reflects Kenya’s recovery in tourism, expanding regional travel, and increased international connectivity through Nairobi.
“In 2025, JKIA handled about 8.6 million passengers against a design capacity of 7.5 million,” KAA said, adding that the figures clearly demonstrate the need for new infrastructure to keep pace with demand.
The authority said the investment will also unlock new opportunities for trade and tourism by strengthening cargo handling capabilities and attracting more international airlines and routes.
“This bold commitment will enhance capacity, improve customer experience, and unlock new opportunities for trade and tourism,” KAA said, noting that the development will reinforce JKIA’s status as “Kenya’s premier gateway to the world.”
President Ruto announced the project during his New Year’s address, saying the new facility would anchor Kenya as the aviation capital of the region and strengthen the country’s trade and tourism sectors.
“In 2026, we will begin the construction of a modern world-class airport at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to anchor our nation as the aviation capital of our region and boost our trade and tourism sectors,” Ruto said.
The head of state also outlined a slate of major infrastructure and development projects scheduled for completion or rollout in 2026, describing the year as a period of “execution at scale” for his administration.
He said the government will complete the Talanta Sports Complex, positioning it to host major international sporting events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He also announced the completion of the Bomas International Convention Centre, which will be restored as a premium venue for national and international conferences, supporting Kenya’s ambition to become a regional hub for global events.
