Pressure is mounting on the government to provide clarity and transparency over the tendering process for the planned expansion and modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), a multi-billion-shilling infrastructure project.
Civil society groups, political leaders and legal experts have questioned the secrecy surrounding the contract, warning that they may move to court to compel the government to disclose all details regarding the agreement, including the successful bidder and the terms of the deal.
Reports indicate that Chinese firms China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and Sinohydro submitted bids for the project, with CRBC reportedly emerging as the leading contender for the contract.
The expansion project is estimated to cost between KSh 150 billion and KSh 180 billion, depending on exchange rate variations and final project requirements.
Critics argue that due to the enormous amount of public resources involved, Kenyans have a right to understand the financing arrangements, contractual obligations and the expected benefits of the airport modernization programme.
The JKIA expansion is expected to improve passenger capacity, enhance airport facilities and strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional aviation hub.
