LEADING AFRICA'S AVIATION FUTURE: TERESIA MBAIKA's STRATEGIC VISION FOR JKIA MODERNIZATION.

 In the heart of East Africa, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) stands as Kenya’s primary gateway to the world. As passenger numbers surge beyond its original design capacity, the ambitious modernization and expansion project aims to transform JKIA into a world-class aviation hub. At the forefront of this transformative initiative is Teresia Mbaika , Principal Secretary for the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development in Kenya’s Ministry of Roads and Transport.

Mbaika’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the project forward, particularly following the shift to an open international tender process. Her role combines strategic oversight, stakeholder coordination, and a strong emphasis on local content and economic impact, positioning her as a key architect of Kenya’s aviation ambitions.

LEADING THE TENDER AND PROJECT MOMENTUM.

One of Mbaika’s most visible contributions has been her direct involvement in the procurement process. In April 2026, she officially opened the pre-bid session for the JKIA modernization project, which included detailed presentations, a comprehensive site tour, and interactive Q&A sessions for international bidders. This milestone advanced the open international tender (with a closing date around April 23, 2026), to be awarded on a least-cost basis to technically qualified firms, incorporating up to 40% local content.

She has chaired high-level meetings with stakeholders, including the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), the National Treasury, the Public Private Partnership Directorate, and the Economic Council. These sessions focus on financing, the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) tender progress, and alignment with the JKIA Masterplan finalized in early 2026. The project encompasses optimization of existing infrastructure and the construction of a new terminal building, alongside upgrades to utilities, technology, and access infrastructure.

CHAMPIONING CAPACITY BUILDING AND LOCAL EXPERTISE.


Mbaika has consistently advocated for leveraging local talent. She has emphasized collaboration with professional engineering bodies to build domestic capacity, reduce costs, and ensure Kenyan engineers play a significant role in the upgrades. This includes strengthening communication, navigation, and surveillance systems as part of broader aviation reforms.

Her vision extends beyond bricks and mortar. She highlights aviation’s massive economic footprint contributing over KSh 1.2 trillion annually (about 3.5% of GDP), supporting 1.2 million jobs, and facilitating KSh 4 trillion in tourism and trade while connecting Kenya to more than 50 international destinations. With JKIA handling 7.5 million passengers by the end of 2025 against a 22 million capacity and projected 7% annual growth, her push for modernization is framed as essential for sustainable growth in sectors like horticulture, manufacturing, and tourism.

Mbaika has also conducted on-site inspections and walkabouts at JKIA to assess operations, identify improvement areas, and ensure readiness for major events, demonstrating hands-on commitment to both immediate functionality and long-term excellence.

BACKGROUND OF A MULTIFACETED LEADER.

With a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health from Kenyatta University and a Master of Science in Health Economics and Policy from the University of Nairobi, Mbaika brings a unique blend of technical, economic, and governance expertise. Her prior experience includes roles in corporate governance, resource mobilization, public finance management, and board positions at entities like the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA). This diverse background equips her well for overseeing complex infrastructure projects with environmental and economic considerations.

As Kenya advances toward a more connected and competitive future, Teresia Mbaika’s dedicated leadership in the JKIA modernization project exemplifies visionary public service. Her efforts to blend international expertise with local empowerment are not just upgrading an airport they are elevating Kenya’s position as East Africa’s premier aviation hub, unlocking economic potential for generations to come. The project’s successful delivery under her stewardship promises a modern, efficient, and resilient facility that will proudly serve as the continent’s gateway.

Her efforts to blend international expertise with local empowerment are not just upgrading an airport they are elevating Kenya’s position as East Africa’s premier aviation hub, unlocking economic potential for generations to come. The project’s successful delivery under her stewardship promises a modern, efficient, and resilient facility that will proudly serve as the continent’s gateway.

In the words of her own emphasis on the initiative, this is a project Kenya can be proud of one that strengthens infrastructure, boosts global connectivity, and drives inclusive growth.

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