Raila Odinga Expresses Disappointment Over JKIA Expansion Deal Withdrawal
Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga voiced his frustration over the collapse of a major deal with the Adani Group aimed at expanding and managing Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Speaking at a national executive meeting in Nairobi's Karen suburb, Odinga pointed to political interference as the key factor behind the project's cancellation.
Political Disagreements Derailed Strategic Plans
Odinga recalled that the initial contract for expanding JKIA was awarded during his administration but was later annulled after his coalition government left office in 2013. The contract was subsequently re-awarded to the same contractor before being scrapped again due to disagreements. Eventually, when the Adani Group was brought on board for the upgrade, Odinga said political dynamics once more stalled progress.
"We had awarded the Greenfield airport contract before we left government with Mwai Kibaki in 2012. That contract was cancelled, then it was given to the same contractor but again cancelled because of disagreements. When we brought in Adani, political issues came in and the contract was cancelled," Odinga explained. He described the outcome as "very unfortunate" and expressed personal disappointment.
Risks of Nairobi Losing Its Regional Aviation Hub Status
Highlighting Kenya's strategic geographical advantage, Odinga warned that without the airport expansion, Nairobi risks falling behind other African hubs. He singled out Addis Ababa, whose thriving new airport and dominant national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, are rapidly positioning the Ethiopian capital as the continent's key aviation center.
"Look at Addis Ababa — they’re growing and building a major new airport. Ethiopian Airlines is now the dominant airline on the continent. Kenya Airways could follow suit and be a continental leader, but we are not leveraging that potential," he noted.
Drawing inspiration from Emirates Airlines, Odinga emphasized that some airlines invest beyond profits, using their carriers as vital tools to attract investors, tourists, and businesses.
Nairobi’s Chance to Become Africa’s 'Dubai'
Urging decisive action, Odinga cautioned that other East African cities may seize the opportunity if Nairobi does not proceed. "Put up a big airport in Nairobi," he urged. "If you don't, Kigali will become the hub. You can make Nairobi the Dubai of Africa."
His remarks came in the presence of Kenya’s President, underscoring the high stakes of Kenya's aviation future and the potential economic impact of inaction.
