Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya plans to use approximately $155 million from the Kenya Pipeline Company initial public offering to fund expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. President William Ruto announced the decision on Monday.
Okay News reports that the Kenyan government raised 106.3 billion shillings by selling 65% of its stake in the pipeline company. Proceeds are earmarked for major infrastructure projects including highways, railways, and ports.
Between 15 and 20 billion shillings from the National Infrastructure Fund will serve as seed money for the airport expansion. The National Infrastructure Fund is a new financing model channeling capital from strategic asset sales into public works.
The expansion comes as the airport operates beyond its intended capacity. The funding will help modernize and expand facilities to meet rising demand.
The project aligns with rising air travel demand across Africa. African airlines recorded 11.7% growth in international air travel demand in January 2026. This was the fastest growth among all global regions according to the International Air Transport Association.
Several African countries are investing heavily in aviation infrastructure. Tunisia plans to spend about $1 billion to expand Tunis-Carthage International Airport. Ethiopia recently started construction of Bishoftu International Airport designed to handle 110 million passengers annually.
Nigeria approved N712.26 billion in 2025 for upgrades to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. The project includes rebuilding Terminal One, expanding Terminal Two, and enlarging the aircraft apron. Smart technology integration will transform the facility into a modern airport meeting global standards.
Kenya’s investment aligns with broader regional trends to enhance air travel infrastructure and competitiveness across the continent.
