Leaking Roof at JKIA Sparked National Uproar
In response to a viral video depicting leaky roofs at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya’s Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has initiated a comprehensive review of the country’s major airports. The move comes amid public outrage over the deteriorating infrastructure and follows recent challenges, including a nationwide blackout and recurring leaks at JKIA.
Transport Secretary Forms Expert Committee
On 15th November, 2023 Murkomen announced the formation of an expert committee tasked with assessing the state of JKIA, Wilson, and Moi airports. The committee, chaired by Eng. Walter Ogolla, will scrutinize infrastructure and electro-mechanical facilities, review works carried out by contractors in the last two years, and propose immediate remedial measures. The committee has been given 14 days to deliver an interim report and an additional two weeks for the final report.
Addressing the Media
In a press statement, Murkomen defended the need for a comprehensive investigation, stating, “I didn’t want any further knee-jerk reactions. I wanted something comprehensive.” He expressed concerns about both Moi International Airport in Mombasa and Wilson Airport, emphasizing the importance of addressing these issues comprehensively.
Three-Year Overhaul Plan
Murkomen acknowledged the aged state of JKIA, commissioned in 1978, and asserted that a complete overhaul is necessary. He outlined a three-year plan to address the airport’s infrastructure challenges, aiming to initiate the construction of a modern terminal through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) by January 2024. The CS assured the public of a lasting solution, stating, “Within the next three years, we no longer have these very old structures.”
Technical Committee’s Mandate
The newly formed 11-member technical committee will play a pivotal role in identifying immediate remedies and proposing long-term solutions for the airport infrastructure. The members include representatives from Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Ministry of Lands and Public Works, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, and the State Department of Transport, among others.
Photo Courtesy: Kipchumba Murkomen on X
Blame on Previous Regime
CS Murkomen attributed the current challenges at JKIA to the previous administration, stating that the terminal renovations carried out in 2021 were substandard and meant to be temporary. He pointed out that the rushed projects, under the Jubilee administration, contributed to the deteriorating state of the airport.
Political Responses
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua defended Murkomen’s statements, acknowledging the truth in the concerns raised about JKIA. Gachagua emphasized that addressing the neglect of critical facilities is a collective responsibility, criticizing those who dismiss the issues as mere lamentations.
Public Backlash and Concerns
The leaking roof incident at JKIA, coupled with recent power outages and delays in restoring services, has prompted public outrage. Financial research firm Mwango Capital expressed concern about the abnormal conditions observed at JKIA, suggesting that the airports authority may perceive such occurrences as routine.
Senator Samson Cherargei, among other notable personalities, shared a video of the leaking terminal on social media, calling out CS Murkomen for alleged ineptitude. Critics argue that despite the CS blaming the previous regime, the current government must be held accountable for addressing these challenges promptly.
Immediate Measures and Future Plans
In response to the public outcry, CS Murkomen unveiled immediate measures and future plans during a visit to JKIA. The government aims to install modern screening technology at the main gate to enhance security and streamline passenger arrival procedures. A self-check-in system, upgraded ticket printing, and improved seating areas with free Wi-Fi are also part of the initiatives to enhance passenger experience.
The Way Forward
As the expert committee begins its investigations and the government outlines plans for JKIA’s overhaul, the focus remains on achieving lasting solutions to the longstanding challenges faced by Kenya’s major airports. The public eagerly awaits the committee’s findings and the government’s commitment to implementing the necessary improvements to ensure the efficient and secure operation of these crucial facilities.