Kenya has signed a $1.2 billion deal with China Road and Bridge Corp to expand Nairobi’s airport capacity, in a major infrastructure move aimed at easing congestion and strengthening the country’s aviation hub.
The project is expected to boost passenger handling, improve airport efficiency, and support Kenya’s long-term ambition to position Nairobi as a leading regional gateway for East and Central Africa. Officials say the expansion will help modernize facilities and create room for growing air traffic linked to trade, tourism, and investment.
China Road and Bridge Corp, a major Chinese construction firm with extensive infrastructure experience across Africa, will handle the development under the new agreement. The deal reflects Kenya’s continued reliance on large-scale foreign partnerships to finance and deliver strategic public works projects.
The airport expansion comes at a time when many African countries are prioritizing transport infrastructure to support economic growth and regional connectivity. For Nairobi, where air travel demand has steadily increased, the upgrade is expected to ease pressure on existing facilities and improve the passenger experience.
Beyond aviation, the project is likely to have wider economic effects through job creation, construction activity, and improved access for business and tourism. If delivered on schedule, the expansion could further strengthen Nairobi’s position as one of Africa’s most important transport and commercial centres.
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