President Ruto at the Town hall meeting Mombasa county, 29th July 2024.

Ruto Clarifies JKIA Plans

President William Ruto has dismissed rumors that the government plans to sell Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Nairobi’s main airport, to a private investor. Instead, he emphasized that Kenya is pursuing a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to modernize the facility.

Why JKIA Needs Upgrading

Ruto explained that the current airport in Nairobi features a canvas structure in the arrivals area. This temporary setup has been in place for almost seven years. In comparison, neighboring countries like Ethiopia and Rwanda boast brand-new airports. Therefore, Ruto argued, Kenya needs to collaborate with investors to build a new airport.

Public-Private Partnership Approach

During a Townhall meeting in Mombasa on Sunday, Ruto stressed that a PPP program is the best way to improve the airport. This approach allows both foreign and local investments in the project. “Am I a mad man? How do you sell a strategic national asset? You have to be insane. We must have the right investment for the airport. What we want to do is to work under the PPP programme,” Ruto asserted.

Public Reaction and Concerns

Ruto’s statement came in response to public outrage over a proposed investment from Adani Airports Holding Limited. This Indian firm plans to inject Ksh.242 billion to expand JKIA. Last week, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) confirmed receiving Adani’s proposal to upgrade the airport over the next 30 years. This proposal aligns with the Cabinet-ratified JKIA Medium Term Investment Plan.

Details of the Investment Plan

Adani’s scheme, conducted under a public-private partnership, includes several significant improvements. These improvements involve upgrading JKIA’s passenger terminal, constructing a new terminal, building a second runway, and enhancing the taxiway and apron.

Civil Society and Legislative Scrutiny

The deal has faced heavy scrutiny from civil society groups and some legislators. They fear the state plans to sell JKIA. Critics argue that involving a private investor could jeopardize the airport’s status as a strategic national asset. However, Ruto has strongly denied these claims.

Emphasizing the Benefits of PPP

Ruto believes that the PPP approach will bring necessary investment to JKIA without compromising its national importance. He pointed out that other countries have successfully implemented similar programs to enhance their infrastructure. For instance, Ethiopia and Rwanda have built new airports through strategic partnerships with private investors.

Addressing Misconceptions

Ruto addressed misconceptions about the PPP program during the Townhall meeting. He clarified that the government is not selling JKIA but partnering with investors to improve it. This partnership aims to provide better services and facilities for travelers while maintaining the airport’s strategic importance.

Looking Forward

The proposed improvements to JKIA are part of a broader effort to boost Kenya’s infrastructure. Ruto’s administration aims to attract more investment to develop key facilities nationwide. By working with private investors, the government hopes to expedite these projects and enhance the country’s economic growth.

In summary, President Ruto has assured the public that JKIA is not for sale. Instead, the government is pursuing a Public-Private Partnership to upgrade and modernize the airport. This approach aims to attract necessary investments while retaining the airport’s strategic importance. The proposed improvements include upgrading passenger terminals, constructing a new terminal, building a second runway, and enhancing the taxiway and apron. Despite public concerns, Ruto remains confident that the PPP program will benefit Kenya’s infrastructure and economy.