President William Ruto has announced that Kenya will begin the construction of a new world-class airport this year, aimed at boosting investment, tourism, and business opportunities in the country.
Speaking to members of the Dawoodi Bohra community in Nairobi on Friday, the President emphasized that Kenya’s journey towards first-world status is gaining momentum, highlighting the community’s contributions in education and healthcare.
During a meeting with the Dawoodi Bohra spiritual leader, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, President Ruto assured that the new airport will complement existing facilities and serve as a regional hub for tourism and business.
“Your Holiness, I know you use our airports. I want to assure you that this year we will begin building a world-class airport that will support Kenya’s tourism sector, regional connectivity, and business travel,” said President Ruto.
The proposed airport is expected to ease congestion at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), after a previous partnership with India’s Adani Group collapsed. The government anticipates that the new facility will increase passenger capacity from 88 million to 100 million annually.
President Ruto also sought the Dawoodi Bohra community’s support in advancing his KSh 5 trillion plan to transform Kenya into a first-world nation.
“We seek your support and prayers. With your partnership, we aim to generate 10,000 megawatts of power, invest in infrastructure, and improve roads across Nairobi,” Ruto said.
The community, led by Prince Dr Al Qaidjahor Ezzuddin, expressed their readiness to support the government’s development initiatives.
President Ruto further emphasized the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in Kenya’s future:
“Fifty-three percent of students currently pursue STEM subjects. Our goal is to raise this to 60 percent to develop a skilled workforce capable of driving our nation forward.”
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi highlighted the Dawoodi Bohra community’s role in promoting cricket and enhancing Kenya’s sporting culture, while Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja praised their values and commitment to knowledge and community development.
