New International Airport Construction to Begin in April 2026, Ruto Says

President William Ruto has announced that construction of a new international airport will begin in April 2026, with the possibility of a start in early May. 

He made the statement during a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots leaders’ meeting in Nyeri. The President said the project, which has faced prolonged delays, is now ready to proceed. He described the airport as a long-standing challenge that the government is determined to resolve, linking the development to broader efforts to modernise the country and expand national capacity.

The proposed airport is expected to cost about Ksh264 billion and is intended to reduce congestion at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Capacity pressure at JKIA increased after the collapse of the Adani-backed expansion plan in 2024. Preliminary indications suggest the new facility may be located at Konza Technopolis, although the final site has not yet been confirmed.

According to government plans, the airport will include modern passenger terminals, extended runways, and expanded aircraft bays. The project is part of the administration’s wider strategy to strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional transport hub. Ruto also rejected claims that public investment is concentrated in a few regions, saying development projects are being distributed across the country.

The President highlighted several complementary infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving national connectivity and economic integration. These include a 700-kilometre highway linking Isiolo to Mandera, intended to open up North Eastern Kenya and support trade and security in the region.

Ruto also confirmed that construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension will begin in February. The new line will run from Naivasha through Kisumu and Malaba, creating a direct rail link between Kenya and Uganda.