Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts to address roof leakages at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport’s Terminal 1B and 1C.
The repair works currently underway aim to solve perennial leakages at the airport whenever heavy rains occur.
During his visit to inspect the progress, Murkomen commended the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) for their commendable work under austere budget constraints. “I’m impressed by the commendable work done by KAA under our directive and with austere budget,” he stated.
Murkomen also revealed that efforts have been made to stabilize electricity supply at the airport, with plans underway to move to the next phase of greening the airport. This includes the installation of solar power and potentially selling excess energy to the national grid.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport serves as a critical trade and transportation hub, connecting goods and people across the country, region, and the globe. However, it has faced challenges such as frequent power outages and roof leakages.
During his visit, Murkomen also toured the cargo side affected by floodwaters from Mombasa Road and the Expressway. He praised KAA’s efforts in managing the situation and urged continued collaboration with stakeholders to maintain the airport’s status as the region’s aviation hub.
To address future flooding issues, Murkomen disclosed that the Cabinet has recommended the formulation of a master plan for the drainage system within Nairobi metropolis, which will be replicated nationwide to support water management for the next five decades.
Furthermore, as a long-term solution, the Ministry is exploring the construction of a new airport terminal through a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
Murkomen was accompanied by KAA acting managing director Henry Ogoye and Engineering General Manager Meshack Ochieng.
The Kenya Airports Authority had earlier moved to address roof leakages following a directive from CS Murkomen, after services at some sections of the airport were paralyzed due to the leakages.
