Ruto Announces Construction of New JKIA Airport and Expanded SGR in 2026 Development Push

Nairobi, Kenya  
President William Ruto has announced an ambitious infrastructure rollout in 2026, including the construction of a world-class airport terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the launch of the Naivasha–Narok–Bomet–Nyamira–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).  
 
In his New Year’s Eve address, President Ruto said the projects are designed to strengthen trade, tourism, and regional connectivity while positioning Kenya as East Africa’s aviation and logistics hub.  
 
“We will begin the construction of a modern world-class airport at JKIA to anchor our nation as the aviation capital of our region,” he said.  
 
“We will also commence the construction of the Naivasha–Narok–Bomet–Nyamira–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway, creating a modern transport and logistics corridor linking Kenya to the East and Central Africa region.”  
 
Regional Integration Vision  
The extended SGR line is expected to link Kenya directly with Uganda and beyond, easing movement of goods and cutting transport costs, which will boost the country economically.  
 
Boost for Trade and Tourism  
Ruto said the new JKIA facility will attract more airlines and improve Kenya’s competitiveness in the aviation sector.  
 
“Changing and transforming a country does not require a miracle; it requires a clear and bold vision,” he said.  
 
 Galana Kulalu Dam Launch  
He also confirmed that the Galana Kulalu Dam project will begin immediately.  
The projects form part of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s push to stimulate growth and job creation heading into the new year  2026.  
 
“We will launch the Galana Kulalu Dam, whose contract was signed on Tuesday” He said.