JKIA Set for Major Transformation After Government Signs Deal With Chinese Company

Kenya has signed a contract with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) to modernize Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), in an effort to expand aviation infrastructure and strengthen its position as a regional transport hub.

According to a statement dated June 23, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said he witnessed the signing of the contract for the JKIA Modernization Project and described it as a major national infrastructure investment.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the government by Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika and CRBC General Manager Yu Xiaodong.

“ Today, I witnessed the signing of the contract for the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) Modernization Project, a major National Infrastructure Investment. The contract was signed on behalf of the Government by the Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ms. Teresia Mbaika, and Mr. Yu Xiaodong, General Manager of China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC)

Kenya Launches JKIA Expansion Project

The JKIA Modernization Project is designed to increase the airport’s capacity, improve safety standards, enhance passenger and cargo services, and boost operational efficiency.

According to the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the project will include the construction of a new terminal building and supporting facilities, alongside the modernization and upgrading of existing airport infrastructure.

The works will also focus on improving both airside and landside operations to streamline airport services and accommodate growing passenger and cargo traffic.

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Additionally, Chirchir revealed that the contract signing follows a procurement process that has been underway for the past three months after the completion of the JKIA Master Plan in February 2026.

He added that more than 40 companies participated in a pre-bid conference held in April 2026, where project expectations and the scope of work were outlined to prospective contractors.

The Cabinet Secretary said all bids were evaluated on both technical and financial merit and that the procurement process complied with all legal and regulatory requirements.

“As a Ministry, we remain firmly committed to transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to all required standards as we deliver world-class aviation infrastructure that will position JKIA as a premier gateway to Africa and drive Kenya’s economic growth and competitiveness,” Chirchir said.

About China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC)

CRBC is a leading state-owned company in China that specializes in international project contracting for roads, bridges, ports, railways, airports, tunnels, and other infrastructure projects.

With over 50 branches and offices around the world, CRBC has a strong presence in Asia, Africa, Europe, and America.

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Meanwhile, as a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), the company has a rich history of completing landmark projects and is recognized globally for its expertise in the field.

In Kenya, CRBC has led the construction of major projects, including constructing the Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, which connects the port of Mombasa to Nairobi, and delivering the Nairobi Expressway alongside the Southern, Eastern, and Northern bypasses.

Additionally, the company is also undertaking key sections of the Nairobi-Mau Summit Road project, including the Nairobi-Gilgil and Nairobi-Naivasha corridors, aimed at easing congestion along one of the country’s busiest transport routes.

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Kenya Signs CRBC Contract for JKIA Modernization Project. Photo/ CS Chirchir