Kenya rolls out reforms to boost passenger traffic at main airport

NAIROBI, Nov. 11 (Xinhua) — The Kenyan government on Monday rolled out reforms at the main airport Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), located in the capital city of Nairobi, to enhance passenger traffic.
John Mbadi, cabinet secretary in the Ministry of National Treasury and Economic Planning, said in a statement issued in Nairobi that the reforms will deliver seamless, efficient, and respectful services to customers departing and arriving in the country through the facility.
“The goal is to reduce waiting time, minimize any inconveniences, and strengthen Kenya’s reputation as a welcoming destination,” Mbadi said.
He said the government has prioritized advanced technological solutions in the reforms to streamline customs and immigration processes to minimize paperwork.
He added that the initiative will provide travelers with clear information on customs duties and taxes, therefore, promoting transparency.
Mbadi noted that the measures would help position JKIA as a world-class gateway to Kenya and a leading aviation hub.
JKIA is one of Kenya’s three main entry points, with the other two being Moi International Airport located in the coastal city of Mombasa and another in the lakeside city of Kisumu in western Kenya.
Most of Kenya’s tourists arrived through JKIA, while the rest entered the country via the Moi airport.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, in the first quarter of 2024, Kenya received 409,164 tourists through the two airports, with 343,555 using JKIA. ■