Two years ago, Kenya backed out of a deal with India’s Adani Group for an airport project due to protests and political issues. Now, the country has signed a new deal with a Chinese state-backed company for a larger airport overhaul worth nearly $3 billion. Despite the higher cost, this move reflects a complex narrative involving politics and strategic decisions.
The initial Adani airport proposal aimed to revamp the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport through a concession agreement. However, the deal was canceled in 2024 following objections from aviation workers and civil society groups over transparency concerns. The cancellation was influenced by a campaign led by whistle-blower Nelson Amenya and Indian politician Jairam Ramesh, criticizing the project’s motives.
Handing over a crucial national asset to a foreign private entity sparked controversy, leading to the abandonment of the Adani deal by the Kenyan government. Subsequently, the project has now been awarded to China Communications Construction Co. at a higher cost, raising questions about the reasons behind the increased price tag. Factors such as inflation and borrowing costs may have contributed to the project’s escalated expenses.
