Why Upgrading Jomo Kenyatta International Airport must meet Global Standards.

December 24, 2024

By Ekaale Ekuam
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is a gateway to Kenya and East Africa. Handling over 8.2 million passengers annually and contributing an estimated $781 million to Kenya's economy, about 1.1% of GDP, its importance cannot be overemphasized. However, with air travel on the increase and international competition heating up, the need to upgrade JKIA into world-class standards has become increasingly imperative.
Recently, the Kenyan government's plan to upgrade JKIA faced public resistance. A decision to award a foreign firm a 30-year contract saw the whole country rise in protests that resulted in the cancellation of the deal. The grievances ranged from a lack of transparency in procurement to loss of control over a national asset. Since the Government wants to upgrade Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, I have decided to make a comparison with the biggest and busiest Airport in the world. To meet such challenges, Kenya can seek inspiration from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is not only the busiest airport globally but also considered a gold standard for operations.
What Makes Atlanta Airport a Global Leader?
Passenger and Workforce Management Over a period, ATL receives 104.7 million passengers in a year, meaning the airport receives over 286,000 passengers a day. This is realized by an approximate workforce of about 55,000 who ensure that activities run day in and day out. The implication of this to JKIA is that workforce development through job creation is an area for investment in the upgrade schedule.
Efficient Design and Accessibility: Atlanta has two passenger terminals, seven terminal halls linked with underground walkways, and rapid transit systems. It has 192 boarding gates, and its seamless design minimizes congestion and improves customer experience. JKIA needs to take a leaf from this in optimizing its terminal layout with modern transit systems, which will easily facilitate people's movement.
Revenue Generation and Economic Impact: With a near $18 billion annual revenue, ATL demonstrates what an airport can do when it is well-managed. This underlines the necessity for JKIA to optimize its streams of revenue through retail, cargo, and aviation services, entailing transparency in financial management.
Global connectivity: While ATL as a hub supports mainly domestic and international routes, it's a key transit point. JKIA currently serves over 50 countries and is bound to increase that number; the opportunity, therefore, will place JKIA as the connecting hub of choice in African and international travel and grow in global relevance.

The government of Kenya has to introduce transparency in procurement to meet global standards, responding to the concerns of its citizens: having openness and competitiveness in the process of sourcing out contractors; partnering with renowned firms with extensive experience in running airports. Public engagement and updates will build confidence and reduce opposition.
Prioritize Local Involvement: While foreign expertise may be necessary, integrating local firms and workforce development into the upgrade ensures the benefits are felt nationally. This can include training programs to upskill Kenyan workers for high-tech airport roles.
Design for Future Growth: JKIA should adopt scalable designs, drawing from ATL's layout. Expanding terminals, adding boarding gates, and integrating technology for security and passenger flow can future-proof the airport.
Leverage Economic Opportunities: A modern JKIA will attract airlines, tourism, and reinforce Kenya's position as a regional business hub. These ripple through into increased exports, job creation, and economic betterment.
Commit to Sustainability: Modern airports also have to meet global goals relating to sustainability. The inclusions of green building practices and energy-efficient systems would make JKIA even more attractive to tourists and investors sensitive to ecological concerns.
The government’s messaging must emphasize the tangible benefits of an upgraded JKIA. By showcasing how the project can create jobs, boost tourism, and elevate Kenya’s global standing, citizens can better appreciate the long-term gains. Transparency, inclusivity, and a clear roadmap will be key to winning public support.
Success witnessed in Atlanta's airport may inspire a renovated JKIA to act as a source of pride for the nation, besides being a factor for economic transformation. If approached accordingly, Kenya can realize a globally competitive airport that is for the benefit of all its citizens.

The Author is a Freelance Writer, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management Consultant.