Cabinet Approves New JKIA Upgrade Plan

The Cabinet Tuesday endorsed a comprehensive plan to enhance passenger experience at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by streamlining operations and bolstering security.

Key changes include exempting all African citizens from Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirements and easing intra-African travel.

Kenyan citizens will benefit from an increased duty-free threshold of goods brought into the country, which has now been increased from Sh50,000 to Sh250,000.

Security screening at JKIA will be enhanced through risk-based profiling, ensuring only flagged bags undergo manual inspection in a dedicated screening room, reducing delays and improving efficiency.

To further expedite travel, the number of immigration booths and staff will be doubled, while E-Gates will be introduced to eliminate long queues and speed up clearance.

Accountability measures will also be strengthened with new monitoring technology deployed to oversee airport staff, and mandatory uniforms with visible name tags required for all agency employees and retail concessionaires.

JKIA infrastructure will also undergo major upgrades, including modernized baggage handling systems, improved stormwater drainage and access roads, installation of covered walkways, enhanced air conditioning, and clearer signage.

Meet-and-greet services will be strictly regulated, ensuring only licensed facilitators operate within the airport to enhance security and order.

These measures take immediate effect, reinforcing JKIA’s position as a leading aviation hub by improving efficiency, security, and overall passenger experience.

President William Ruto chaired the Special Cabinet meeting at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday, where the Cabinet approved the 2025 Budget Policy Statement (BPS).

On other matters, Cabinet approved several host country agreements, reinforcing Kenya’s role as a regional hub for international organisations.

These include agreements with the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, Save the Children International, Shelter Afrique Development Bank, Oxfam International, Norwegian Refugee Council, and Population Services International, among others.

Additionally, Cabinet approved the ratification of an agreement with Singapore to eliminate double taxation and prevent fiscal evasion, further strengthening Kenya’s global trade and investment ties. Cabinet also endorsed Kenya’s hosting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), underscoring the country’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation and economic
diplomacy.