Nairobi, Kenya – The proposed takeover of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the largest airport in Kenya, by Adani Holdings has ignited a firestorm of criticism and concern among various stakeholders in the country. The deal, which surfaced just months after Kenyan President William Ruto's visit to India and his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, has raised numerous questions regarding the transparency and integrity of the contract negotiations.
Following the announcement of the deal, allegations have emerged suggesting that the process by which the Indian conglomerate was awarded the contract involved an overhaul of Kenya’s aviation policy, raising fears of favoritism and corruption. Critics have coined the term “Modani” to describe the perceived nexus between Prime Minister Modi and Gautam Adani, with former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga alleging that Adani was introduced to him by Modi over a decade ago, highlighting the longstanding ties between the two leaders.
The Adani group’s plans for the airport include refurbishing the existing terminal, constructing a new terminal, and building an additional runway, with the operations of the airport slated to be leased to Adani for a substantial 30 years. However, this proposal has sparked widespread discontent among aviation professionals and the public alike, with the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) formally requesting a review of the contract on October 9. They argue that the bidding process violated the principles of the country’s Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model and criticized the government for its lack of consultation with key stakeholders before proceeding with the agreement.
The controversy deepened when aviation workers staged a strike in September, demanding a say in the deal and ultimately compelling the government to concede to their request for veto power over the contract with Adani. The ongoing unrest surrounding the airport takeover reflects a broader unease with foreign investments in Kenya, particularly those involving high-profile business figures like Adani, who has recently signed energy deals in the country worth ₹6,186 crore.
As public sentiment grows increasingly hostile towards the government’s handling of the airport deal, many Kenyans are calling for increased transparency and accountability in foreign investment agreements. With the stakes high and the future of Kenya’s aviation sector hanging in the balance, the pressure on the government to address these concerns and clarify the terms of the Adani deal continues to mount.