Nairobi, July 23, 2024 — Amidst the ongoing protests against President William Ruto's administration, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has issued a statement to address the rumors surrounding the alleged leasing of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to India's Adani Airports Holding Limited.
The KAA confirmed that while a proposal from Adani Airports was received, it does not equate to a lease or sale of the airport. According to KAA, the proposal is part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) aimed at enhancing JKIA's capacity to meet the projected passenger demand, expected to reach 42.1 million annually by 2050. This initiative is aligned with Kenya’s National Aviation Policy to bolster Nairobi's status as an aviation hub.
"The Adani Airports PIP was prepared and submitted in accordance with the Public Private Partnerships Act, 2021, recognizing KAA’s mandate as the contracting authority in Kenya," stated KAA. The statement further emphasized that all proposals undergo a rigorous assessment to ensure they align with strategic objectives and regulatory standards before any approval.
This clarification comes at a critical time as the country witnesses a wave of protests led by Generation Z under the banner #OccupyJKIA. These protests are part of broader demonstrations against the Ruto government, criticizing various policies and decisions, including the controversial 2024 Finance Bill. The protests, which have included calls to occupy key locations such as JKIA, are driven by frustrations over police brutality, economic challenges, and perceived governmental corruption.
The Gen-Z led protests have been remarkable not only for their scale but also for their organization through digital platforms, reflecting a significant shift in the mode of civic engagement in Kenya. Despite President Ruto’s efforts to deescalate tensions, including the withdrawal of the Finance Bill and proposing spending cuts, protests have persisted, reflecting deep-seated discontent among the youth and other segments of the population.
The KAA’s statement is an attempt to quell the misinformation and assure stakeholders of the ongoing and transparent process involved in any PPP arrangements concerning JKIA. The statement highlights the importance of JKIA as a critical gateway for Kenya’s connection to global markets, underlining its role in fostering international trade and economic integration within the region.
As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how the government will address the broader grievances fueling the protests and manage the delicate balance of fostering economic development while ensuring public trust and stability.