Peter Kaluma has ignited fresh debate after sharply criticising the condition of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya’s main international gateway.
In a blunt statement shared publicly, Kaluma said:
“Yesterday, I visited some cowshed called JKIA! President William Ruto MUST rebuild that airport if Kenya is to retain her status as East Africa’s regional aviation hub.”
The remarks, though controversial in tone, reflect growing concerns among leaders and travellers about infrastructure standards at the airport. JKIA plays a central role in positioning Kenya as a key transit and logistics hub in East and Central Africa. It handles millions of passengers annually and supports critical sectors including tourism, horticulture exports, and international trade.
Kaluma’s comments come at a time when regional competition in aviation is intensifying. Countries such as Ethiopia and Rwanda have heavily invested in modern airport facilities to strengthen their roles as continental transit hubs. Any perception of decline in service quality, infrastructure maintenance, or passenger experience at JKIA could potentially affect Kenya’s competitiveness.
Over the years, JKIA has faced challenges ranging from congestion and aging facilities to periodic infrastructure breakdowns and service complaints from travellers. While the government has previously announced expansion and renovation plans, critics argue that more comprehensive upgrades may be necessary to meet international standards and rising passenger demand.
Supporters of Kaluma’s position say that modernising JKIA would not only improve Kenya’s image but also boost investor confidence and enhance the overall travel experience. Others, however, believe the language used was overly harsh and that reforms should focus on structured upgrades rather than a complete rebuild.
The comments have since triggered conversation online about the future of Kenya’s aviation sector, the need for strategic infrastructure planning, and the importance of maintaining global competitiveness in a rapidly evolving regional market.
