NAIROBI — In a major development for Kenya’s aviation sector, President William Ruto has confirmed that the government has signed the contract for the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

The announcement, made on July 8, 2026, solidifies the state’s commitment to upgrading the country’s primary transport hub, which serves as a critical gateway for the East African region.

According to the Head of State, the massive infrastructure project is valued at Ksh150 billion. This substantial financial commitment underlines the scale of the planned renovations and expansion works at the Nairobi-based airport. The government has stated the contract will not exceed Ksh154.2 billion ($1.19 billion).

The signing of this contract marks a pivotal moment for the Ruto administration, which has prioritized infrastructure development as a key driver of national economic growth. The multi-billion-shilling upgrade is expected to modernize JKIA’s facilities, addressing long-standing operational challenges and capacity constraints. The project aims to expand the airport’s capacity to 22 million passengers annually.

By securing this Ksh150 billion deal, the government aims to enhance the airport’s overall efficiency, improving passenger experience and boosting cargo handling capabilities. The strategic upgrade is also designed to secure Nairobi’s position as a dominant regional aviation and commercial hub.

The contract has been awarded to a Chinese firm, with reports identifying China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) and its subsidiary China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) as the primary contractors. President Ruto has stated that the project will be financed without imposing new taxes or taking on new debt.

The procurement process has faced scrutiny over a lack of transparency. There have been allegations of involvement by controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, though the government has officially denied that his company submitted a bid for the contract. Attorney General Dorcas Oduor has defended the contract, stating it underwent rigorous legal scrutiny.

The signing of the contract on July 8, 2026, represents a major step forward in actualizing these plans. With the government now officially committed to the Ksh150 billion upgrade, the focus shifts to the implementation phase of the expansion.

President William Ruto’s confirmation of the signed agreement signals a new chapter for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and the broader Kenyan transport network.