JKIA Set for Major Facelift, Terminal 1C to Reopen This Month

The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is set to undergo a comprehensive facelift by the end of the current month.

The Kenyan government has announced the reopening of Terminal 1C as part of an ambitious plan to enhance the airport's infrastructure and services. This move is expected to alleviate congestion and streamline international arrivals as the airport aims to serve over 25 million passengers by 2050. The Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar reveals that Terminal 1C will reopen at the end of the month in an effort to modernize the airport. In addition to the reopening of Terminal 1C, several key improvements have been implemented to enhance the overall passenger experience.

Notably, JKIA now boasts a roof canopy extending from Terminal 1A to Terminal 1D, providing shelter and protection for travellers during adverse weather conditions. Addressing a long-standing issue, the airport has also restored a stable power supply across all terminals to ensure uninterrupted operations and prevent disruptions caused by blackouts. Furthermore, Terminal 1E, which caters to international arrivals, will undergo renovations following a temporary shutdown due to a fire incident. The authorities are committed to enhancing safety and functionality, prioritizing the well-being and comfort of passengers.

The decision to revamp JKIA comes in response to widespread complaints from Kenyans including prominent journalist Larry Madowo who publicly challenged Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to address the airport's infrastructure deficiencies. Heavy rainfall in March and April exacerbated the issues with flooding hindering airport activities and further highlighting the urgency for improvements. Madowo's candid assessment of the situation shed light on the challenges faced by international guests, stating, "Landing in the rain, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, no shelter but this is not even the worst part. Look at this situation, international guests have to deal with this."