The Kenyan government has reaffirmed that no formal agreement has been signed with Indian conglomerate Adani Group concerning the proposed Ksh. 260 billion expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir admitted there had been a lack of clear communication about the project but stressed that no binding contract exists. "We’ve tried to communicate over the past few weeks, but there was a lapse in how we presented the privately initiated investment by Adani in this airport," Chirchir stated during a press briefing at JKIA, following the resolution of a strike by aviation workers.
Aviation workers, represented by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), had gone on strike for 24 hours in protest of the proposed deal, disrupting operations at JKIA and other nearby airports, leaving many travelers stranded.
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Chirchir explained that under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act, private investors are allowed to submit proposals, with negotiations focusing on details like return on equity and debt-equity ratios. He also mentioned that more information would be made public during an ongoing court case related to the matter.
"The court proceedings provide an opportunity for the government to share all relevant documents as part of public participation," Chirchir said. He added that this process would help the public understand the government's use of PPP frameworks to develop infrastructure like roads, airports, and schools.
As part of the agreement to end the strike, the government committed to sharing key documents related to the Adani proposal with KAWU. According to a joint statement by Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Airways, and KAWU, the union will review these documents within 10 working days and highlight any concerns, which will be addressed in further discussions with the government.
The statement, read by COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, also emphasized that two representatives from each party involved will participate in all future negotiations. It further stated that no final agreement will be signed without the consent of KAWU.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura reiterated that the Adani proposal is still under review and no agreement has been finalized. He explained that the Kenya Airports Authority received a Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP) from Adani Airport Holdings in March 2024 under the PPP Act. The proposal is still undergoing the required approval processes, including stakeholder consultations, National Treasury review, and Cabinet clearance.
"No terms have been agreed upon, and all aspects of the proposal remain subject to negotiation," Mwaura said in a statement.
