- CNN journalist Larry Madowo has commended the Kenyan government for its decision to revamp Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
- The accepted plan encompasses upgrades to JKIA's infrastructure, strengthened security measures, and operational adjustments to enhance the passenger experience.
- New policies will exempt African citizens from electronic travel authorization requirements and increase the duty-free allowance for Kenyan travelers.
CNN correspondent Larry Madowo has expressed satisfaction following the Kenyan government's long-awaited response to the ongoing issues at JKIA.
Madowo has been a prominent critic of the airport's inefficiencies, frequently pointing out issues such as inadequate drainage, outdated infrastructure, and insufficient passenger facilities.
He has repeatedly used his platform to criticize elected leaders for their lack of attention to the passenger terminals at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
In his videos, he points out the shortcomings of these public areas, including leaky roofs and subpar services, which result in an inconvenient and unworthy travel experience for the general public.
In stark contrast, Madowo noted that while ordinary Kenyans have to navigate through puddles and put up with the inconvenience of a deteriorating infrastructure, government officials have a smooth passage through well-maintained exclusive lounges.
His persistent efforts to advocate for change have increased public pressure to such an extent that it has become impossible to ignore the need for change.
Following the government's decision to approve extensive renovations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Madowo took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his approval.
“Everything I've been complaining about at JKIA is being addressed. It's about time! Being optimistic and patriotic wasn't the solution—constantly bringing attention to the problems was. Exposure to the truth is the best way to effect change.”
What changes has the government approved at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?
On Tuesday, February 11, President William Ruto's Cabinet ratified a comprehensive overhaul of JKIA, with the goal of upgrading it to international standards.
The initiative encompasses significant upgrades to infrastructure, policy reforms, and security enhancements aimed at strengthening Kenya's standing as a prominent regional aviation center.
A significant policy change will exempt all African citizens from the need to obtain an ETA, making travel within the continent much simpler. This decision is consistent with the African Union's efforts to enhance internal mobility and economic unity among African nations.
Furthermore, the government has raised the duty-free limit for Kenyan travelers from KSh 50,000 to KSh 250,000, offering more flexibility and economic benefits to business travelers and returning residents.
7. "The airport's signage and wayfinding system should be improved to facilitate navigation and reduce confusion."
The improvements at JKIA will involve upgraded stormwater drainage to prevent flooding and leaks during rainy periods. The baggage handling system will be updated to reduce delays and minimize lost luggage.
Covered walkways will be installed to protect passengers from severe weather. Moreover, the air conditioning systems will be improved to provide a more comfortable airport experience for travelers, and clearer signs will be placed throughout the airport to facilitate easier navigation.
Security and operational efficiency will also see significant improvements. A new risk-based profiling system will ensure that only high-risk luggage undergoes manual examination, thereby simplifying the clearance process.
Meet-and-greet services at JKIA will be strictly regulated, and only licensed facilitators will be allowed to operate within the airport premises.