Kenya Ditches Adani Deal, Plans New Modern Airport

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has announced that the government will pursue construction of a new airport, following the collapse of the stalled JKIA – Adani expansion project. The announcement came during a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) symposium in Nairobi on August 11, 2025.

Chirchir emphasized that Kenya lacks a modern airport infrastructure and is entering a new phase of ambition. He stated, “We are in the process of building a new one… so that we truly become an anchor state that attracts visitors and gives them that good feeling of coming in through the airport.”

Treasury CS John Mbadi reaffirmed the project’s inclusion in the national pipeline. Earlier in the year, the Cabinet also approved upgrades for JKIA — covering improved drainage, covered walkways, air conditioning, and baggage systems — to enhance passenger experience in the short term.

Collapse of Adani Deal & Strategic Pivot

The Adani Group deal, which included a 30-year terminal and runway expansion at JKIA, was formally cancelled by President William Ruto in November 2024 amid transparency concerns. Adding to the blow, part of the collapse also stemmed from stalled communication and legal challenges.

Raila Odinga criticized the collapse as a missed opportunity that jeopardized Kenya’s ambitions to become Africa’s aviation hub — especially as competing airports in Addis Ababa and Kigali advance.

In response to the Adani fallout, the government decided to explore financing via KAA’s own balance sheet and development finance institutions, rather than entering opaque private deals. Construction review reports signal that the government hopes to break ground on the new expansion before the end of 2025 — with a target for completion before the end of the 2025/2026 financial year.

For Kenya to retain its regional aviation status and boost tourism and trade, a modern, well-managed airport is essential. The shift toward transparent funding structures, public participation, and immediate infrastructure upgrades shows a more pragmatic — and perhaps resilient — approach to long-delayed ambitions.

Featured image via X screengrab