US Firm Breaks Silence as Kenya Ignores Its Proposal, Embraces Adani for JKIA Revamp

An American company based in Buenos Aires has criticized President William Ruto's government for not responding to its proposal to renovate the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

The company reveals in a Bloomberg interview that they had submitted a presentation letter to then-Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen in mid-June, but have yet to receive any acknowledgment from the Kenyan government. This revelation comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding a separate bid by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani's conglomerate to assume control of JKIA operations for a 30-year period. The Adani proposal has generated significant public outcry and controversy within Kenya.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has attempted to allay concerns by clarifying that the Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP) from Adani remains under review and has not been finalized. Chirchir emphasizes that the potential deal would be limited to JKIA and would not affect other airports in the country. The government's handling of the airport renovation plans has faced criticism from various quarters. Aviation workers across Kenya recently staged demonstrations to protest the potential leasing of JKIA to the Adani Group, expressing fears about job security and demanding government intervention.

These protests led to disruptions at major airports, necessitating police involvement to restore order. Adding to the confusion surrounding the issue, President William Ruto has denied reports of the government's intention to lease JKIA to the Adani Group, dismissing such claims as "fake news." However, Ruto did acknowledge plans for a private-public agreement aimed at expanding the airport. This apparent contradiction has further fueled public skepticism and debate. The controversy has also drawn attention to the Adani Group's recent history of scandals, including allegations of fraud and insider trading, which the conglomerate has denied.

The group's proposal for JKIA was reportedly approved by Kenya's Airport Authority (KAA), despite expert recommendations for a public tender process. The ongoing airport debate occurs against a backdrop of broader political unrest in Kenya. President Ruto has faced mounting pressure following weeks of youth-led protests, initially triggered by proposed tax increases and later evolving into calls for his resignation over governance concerns. In response, Ruto announced cabinet changes in an effort to form a more inclusive government.