Project News
Kenya Gets Sh16bn AfDB Loan for JKIA Runway Project
The runway will nearly double the movement of aircraft from 25 to 45 per hour.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) approved a Sh16.5 billion loan for a second runway at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. This project aims to nearly double aircraft movement at East Africa’s largest airfield.
The Wednesday approval paves the way for construction works to commence in the second half of next year, according to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
AfDB infrastructure director Amadou Oumarou said the runway, which will be longer and wider than the current one, will enable JKIA to handle bigger planes that ply intercontinental routes as Nairobi prepares to welcome US direct flights.
“The 2nd runway will support more air traffic and facilitate increased tourism and business travel and expedite two-way cargo traffic,” Mr Oumarou said.
The proposed JKIA second runway, whose design was funded by the African bank, is 4.8 kilometres long and 75 metres wide – a significant improvement from the current runway that has a length of 4.2 kilometres and a width of 60 metres.
KAA managing director Johny Andersen had in January said that the second runway estimated to cost Sh37 billion would nearly double the movement of aircraft from 25 to 45 per hour thus minimising delays caused by mishaps on the path.
RELATED: Second JKIA Runway Project to Cost Sh37 Billion
“The new runway will be an upgrade of the existing one (which was built in the 1970s). This will be a category two runway that conforms to international standards,” Mr Andersen said.
The technology of the proposed facility, according to KAA, will meet the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Category II specifications, which will enable operations in bad weather thus avoiding diversion of aircraft.
“This is an ICAO Code F runway which can handle the new generation extra wide-bodied aircraft like Airbus A380 and Boeing B747-800,” KAA said in a statement.
JKIA expects to handle slightly over 17 million passengers annually by 2020, with growth expected to accelerate to 35 million passengers by 2030.
Kenya Bets on South Korean Tech to Solve Housing Woes
Aluminum formwork enables faster construction with reusable molds.
State Orders Removal of Asbestos Roofs in 90 Days
Asbestos causes mesothelioma, a cancer that is difficult to treat.
Savannah Takes on Amsons with Sh25bn Bamburi Bid
Amsons recently offered Sh23.6bn to acquire 100% of Bamburi shares.
China on Brink of Sh180bn Highway Deal with Kenya
Talks are underway for China to fund a new highway and rail extension.
Work Begins on Sh11.6bn Geothermal Plant in Nakuru
The Chinese-funded Orpower 22 power plant will take 17 months to complete.
Mukuru Affordable Housing Handover Set for December
Bedsitters will rent for Sh3,200 per month on a 30-year rent-to-own plan.