Ledama Olekina rallies for new airport terminal at JKIA
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has reignited calls for the construction of a new airport terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Taking to his official X account on Saturday, August 2, 2025, morning, Senator Ledama urged the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to utilise its own financial muscle to actualise the much-needed project.
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Speaking against the backdrop of rising public concern over the controversial Adani deal, Olekina pointed to the overwhelming support shown by Kenyans who stood against what he described as an unfavourable concession.
“Look at the sea of humanity around us! We stood united and said NO to Adani,” he stated in a passionate call to action.
Growing demands
Despite the rejection of the Adani proposal, Olekina emphasised the urgency of expanding airport infrastructure to meet growing national and regional demands.
“There’s no denying that we urgently need a new airport! Just like any responsible business, KAA must leverage its own financial resources to fund this essential project,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the government and its institutions can secure the required $1.6 billion (Ksh206.6 billion) to build a modern terminal that meets international standards. He underscored the strategic importance of such an investment, citing its potential to boost Kenya’s position as a regional aviation hub and spur economic growth.
“The time to act is now,” he said, calling on stakeholders to abandon political distractions and focus on long-term development goals.
Raila on Adani deal
In June 2025, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga criticised the government for stalling on a key airport project, warning that Kenya is losing its chance to become a major aviation hub in Africa.
Speaking at the 3rd National Executive Retreat on Friday, June 20, 2025, the opposition leader said politics had disrupted vital infrastructure plans, especially the cancelled Adani deal.
“I was very disappointed when we were not able to move on with the airport contract,” Raila said.
“Kenya is very strategically situated where we are. We are very fortunate. Kenya can become a hub, a big hub.”
He stressed that Nairobi has the potential to compete with global cities like Dubai if supported by modern infrastructure. At the heart of his vision is a new, world-class airport to transform the capital into a gateway for trade, tourism, and investment.
