Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has dismissed reports claiming that the planned expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) will cost KSh375.4 billion, stating that the actual project cost is approximately KSh155.3 billion.
Speaking before the Senate, Mbadi clarified that the figures circulating online and in sections of the media were inaccurate and had created unnecessary public concern. He explained that the government has developed a financing model through the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), which will support the modernization and expansion of Kenya's busiest airport.
According to the CS, the project aims to improve JKIA's capacity, upgrade aging infrastructure, enhance passenger experience, and position Kenya as a leading aviation hub in Africa. He emphasized that the funding arrangement is designed to minimize pressure on public finances and avoid increasing the country's sovereign debt burden.
The clarification comes amid growing public scrutiny over major infrastructure projects following the collapse of the proposed Adani-led airport modernization deal. Questions had emerged regarding the cost, procurement process, and financing of the new JKIA expansion plan.
Mbadi maintained that the government remains committed to transparency and accountability throughout the implementation process, assuring Kenyans that the project will deliver value for money while supporting economic growth and boosting the country's aviation sector.
Speaking before the Senate, Mbadi clarified that the figures circulating online and in sections of the media were inaccurate and had created unnecessary public concern. He explained that the government has developed a financing model through the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), which will support the modernization and expansion of Kenya's busiest airport.
According to the CS, the project aims to improve JKIA's capacity, upgrade aging infrastructure, enhance passenger experience, and position Kenya as a leading aviation hub in Africa. He emphasized that the funding arrangement is designed to minimize pressure on public finances and avoid increasing the country's sovereign debt burden.
The clarification comes amid growing public scrutiny over major infrastructure projects following the collapse of the proposed Adani-led airport modernization deal. Questions had emerged regarding the cost, procurement process, and financing of the new JKIA expansion plan.
Mbadi maintained that the government remains committed to transparency and accountability throughout the implementation process, assuring Kenyans that the project will deliver value for money while supporting economic growth and boosting the country's aviation sector.
