Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) has been named Africa’s Leading Airport for 2024 by the prestigious World Travel Awards. This recognition places the Nairobi-based airport ahead of its regional and continental peers. JKIA triumphed over airports like Cape Town International Airport (South Africa), Casablanca Mohammed V Airport (Morocco), and Kigali International Airport (Rwanda).
JKIA stood out in its category, competing against major airports across Africa. In addition to the above-mentioned nominees, it also beat Julius Nyerere International Airport (Tanzania), King Shaka International Airport (South Africa), and Oliver Reginald Tambo International Airport (South Africa).
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This award ceremony was held at the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort in Diani, Kenya. Henry Ogoye, Managing Director of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), accepted the award on behalf of JKIA. He was joined by Acting JKIA Manager Selina Gor and other KAA officials.
JKIA’s Commitment to Excellence
Kenya Airports Authority lauded this victory as a testament to JKIA’s commitment to delivering exceptional service. They believe that winning Africa’s Leading Airport award highlights their dedication to operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction.
KAA shared a statement following the win, emphasizing the dedication of the JKIA team. “This win reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional service, enhancing operational efficiency, and continuously improving the passenger experience. We thank all our passengers and partners for their continued support,” the statement read.
JKIA’s win is part of Kenya’s broader success at the 2024 World Travel Awards. Alongside Africa’s Leading Airport, Kenya also bagged accolades for Africa’s Leading Airline, Africa’s Leading Airline-Business Class, and Africa’s Leading Airline Brand. Notably, Nairobi was crowned Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination.
Despite the recognition, JKIA is currently embroiled in controversy. The Kenyan government has proposed leasing the airport to Indian conglomerate Adani Airport Holdings for 30 years. The deal includes significant investments in renovations, but it has sparked outrage from airport staff and the general public.
In September 2024, staff strikes disrupted operations at JKIA and other Kenyan airports. Employees expressed concerns about job security and the potential impact of the lease. The future of this proposal remains uncertain, but it has added complexity to JKIA’s celebrated success.