Dar Al-Handasah Appointed to Oversee Ksh154 Billion JKIA Upgrade as Government Kicks Off Major Airport Expansion
The government has officially launched the next phase of the ambitious Ksh154 billion modernisation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after appointing international engineering consultancy Dar Al-Handasah Consultants to supervise the multibillion-shilling project.
The consultancy agreement, signed on Wednesday, July 15, places the Lebanon-founded engineering firm at the centre of one of Kenya’s largest infrastructure projects, with responsibility for engineering supervision, project management, design review and contract administration throughout the airport expansion.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir said the appointment marks a significant milestone as the government moves from planning into the implementation stage of the long-awaited JKIA upgrade.
“The consultant will provide engineering supervision and project management services for the implementation of the JKIA modernisation project,” Chirchir said.
He added that the firm’s global expertise would be crucial in ensuring the airport expansion is delivered according to approved engineering standards, safety requirements, quality benchmarks, timelines and budget.
“Their expertise will be instrumental in delivering a modern, efficient, safe, and sustainable airport that meets global standards. This marks the beginning of a critical implementation phase,” the CS stated.
Government Targets World-Class Aviation Hub
According to the Transport Ministry, the airport expansion is expected to transform JKIA into a modern aviation hub capable of handling growing passenger and cargo traffic while reinforcing Kenya’s position as East Africa’s leading gateway.
Chirchir said the investment goes beyond improving airport infrastructure, noting that the project is expected to stimulate trade, strengthen regional connectivity, attract more tourists and create employment opportunities during both construction and operation.
The ministry further stated that the consultancy firm will oversee every stage of implementation to ensure contractors comply with technical specifications and international engineering standards.
CRBC to Build Ksh154 Billion Project
While Dar Al-Handasah will supervise the project, the actual construction works will be undertaken by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), which was selected as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor following what the government described as a competitive procurement process.
The procurement exercise has been ongoing for approximately three months after completion of the JKIA Master Plan in February 2026, with more than 40 companies participating in a pre-bid conference held in April before bids were evaluated.
New Terminal and Expanded Capacity
The modernisation programme will include the construction of a new passenger terminal alongside extensive improvements to both airside and landside facilities aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and passenger experience.
Once completed, the expansion is expected to increase JKIA’s annual passenger handling capacity to approximately 22 million travellers, significantly boosting the airport’s ability to accommodate future growth in regional and international air traffic.
The project forms part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise critical transport infrastructure and position Kenya as Africa’s premier aviation and logistics hub.
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