Controversy surrounds KSh 375 billion JKIA expansion deal awarded to consortium including Zimbabwean tycoon's firm
via Tuko1 min read
A KSh 375 billion approximately $2.9 billion deal for the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport JKIA in Nairobi has sparked debate regarding transparency. Zimbabwean tycoon Wicknell Chivayo, through his firm IMC Construction Kenya, has secured a stake in the project as a joint venture partner with China Communications Construction Company CCCC. Chivayo's involvement has drawn scrutiny due to his close association with President Ruto, documented through multiple State House visits since 2025. The tender was initially awarded to Adani Group in 2024 for $1.85 billion but was canceled following union objections and a US corruption probe. It was then re-advertised and awarded to the CCCC consortium, which also includes CRBC and IMC. Unlike Adani's proposed revenue-sharing model, CCCC will be paid KSh 375 billion for the works and will return the facility to the government upon completion. The expansion aims to increase capacity by 15 million passengers annually and include a new runway by 2029. Chivayo's regional business activities include contracts in Zimbabwe and hotel projects in Tanzania. The funding model, which combines debt and the securitization of the Air Passenger Service Levy now raised to $50 for international travelers, has raised concerns from the Law Society of Kenya regarding transparency and potential burdens on passengers and airlines. President William Ruto has confirmed that construction at JKIA will begin next month.
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