Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has refuted claims that the Kenyan government intends to sell Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to foreign investors. Rumors of the airport's sale have been widely circulated in Kenyan media, leading to a planned protest called ‘OccupyJKIA’ on Tuesday.



Addressing the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee on Monday, Mudavadi clarified that the sale of such a significant asset would require public consultations and parliamentary approval. "The airport is not for sale. This is a public and strategic asset. If it were to be sold, it could only be done following a comprehensive public process endorsed by parliament," Mudavadi stated.

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Instead of selling, Mudavadi mentioned plans to modernize the airport and construct a new terminal. "The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) must carefully review its investment programs and ensure complete transparency. The expansion of the second terminal should be carried out through legal procedures, so everyone is informed of the developments," he added.



Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka is among the legislators who have publicly discussed the alleged takeover of JKIA. He claims that the government has transferred the airport's ownership to unnamed foreign entities. "We are signing off our airport to be managed by a private company for 30 years, and after the contract ends, they will retain 18 percent equity of our airport. Why would anyone agree to such a deal?" the senator questioned, referencing an unnamed French whistleblower.

The rumors about the airport's sale have led to plans for public protests at JKIA on Tuesday. In response, the police have issued warnings against occupying JKIA, noting that the airport is a protected area in Kenya.