JKIA set for major upgrades as government moves to enhance operations
JKIA’s infrastructure will also be upgraded, including modernised baggage handling systems, improved stormwater drainage and access roads, installation of covered walkways, enhanced air conditioning, and clearer signage.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is set to undergo major restructuring after the Cabinet approved various reforms aimed at improving passenger experience, strengthening security, and streamlining operations.
Among the key changes is the exemption of all African citizens from the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements, a move expected to boost intra-African travel.
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Kenyan travellers will also benefit from an increase in the duty-free threshold for goods brought into the country, which has been raised from Sh50,000 to Sh250,000.
The Cabinet chaired by President William Ruto on Tuesday also directed that security measures at the airport be enhanced through a risk-based profiling system, which will ensure only flagged bags undergo manual inspection in a dedicated screening room.
“This is expected to reduce delays and improve efficiency in passenger clearance,” reads the Cabinet dispatch.
To further ease congestion, the number of immigration booths and officers will be doubled, while the introduction of e-gates will eliminate long queues and speed up processing times. Additionally, the Cabinet noted that monitoring technology will be deployed to oversee airport staff, and all agency employees and retail concessionaires will be required to wear mandatory uniforms with visible name tags to enhance accountability.
JKIA’s infrastructure will also be upgraded, including modernised baggage handling systems, improved stormwater drainage and access roads, installation of covered walkways, enhanced air conditioning, and clearer signage.
Further, the Cabinet directed that meet-and-greet services at the airport be strictly regulated, ensuring that only licensed facilitators operate within the facility to maintain order and security.
“These measures take immediate effect as part of the government’s strategy to reinforce JKIA’s position as a leading aviation hub by improving operational efficiency, security, and overall passenger experience,” reads the dispatch.
The latest reforms at JKIA come just months after President Ruto cancelled a proposed deal that would have seen Indian conglomerate Adani Group take over operations at the airport.
Last year, Ruto ordered the immediate termination of the Adani Group’s planned takeover of JKIA, citing fresh evidence from investigative agencies linking the company to corruption.
The President further instructed the relevant ministries to “immediately begin the process of onboarding new partners because these are important projects.”
The Adani Group had faced mounting scrutiny, particularly after billionaire owner Gautam Adani got charged with fraud in the United States.
Prosecutors in New York alleged that Adani and other senior executives bribed Indian officials to secure contracts for his renewable energy company, which was projected to generate more than $2 billion in profits over two decades. The Adani Group however denied the allegations.
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