IEK Censures 30-Year Airport Lease to Adani, Urges Local Engineers Involvement and Transparency
By Shadrack Nyakoe
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has raised concerns over the Build Operate Transfer (BOT) agreement where the Kenyan government plans to lease Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Adani Holdings, an Indian firm, for 30 years.
The IEK argues that this arrangement could marginalize Kenyan engineers who have played a key role in the development and maintenance of airports, ensuring safety and efficiency.
According to IEK President Shammah Kiteme, the deal would likely deprive local engineers of opportunities for hands-on experience and capacity development, hindering their contribution to Kenya’s long-term growth.
Kiteme emphasized that Kenyan engineers and companies possess the skills needed to handle many technical aspects of airport operations. He argued that foreign entities, when given control, often prioritize their own resources, limiting local involvement.
“This restricts skill development within the country and stifles innovation,” he said.
Kiteme stressed the importance of retaining local control to ensure the transfer of knowledge and foster continuous growth.
While acknowledging the benefits of foreign investment and expertise, Kiteme urged for a careful evaluation of long-term leases or partnerships.
“The IEK is calling for transparency, stakeholder involvement, and a more participatory approach to the project. Kenya could explore competitive bidding and partnership models used in other African countries to secure better deals that align with national development goals,” he stated.
He also called for an open dialogue involving local communities and engineers to ensure that the terms of such agreements are beneficial and fair to Kenya in the long run.
