On May 5, 2025, the Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) Board, led by Chairman Mbuvi Ngunze, held a high-level consultative engagement with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) Board of Directors at the KAA Headquarters. The session brought together key stakeholders in Kenya’s aviation sector to discuss priority issues and strengthen collaboration for sustainable growth.
The meeting was honored by the presence of the Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ms. Teresia Mbaika, whose attendance reaffirmed the government’s deep commitment to stakeholder dialogue and strategic public-private partnerships in aviation. Also in attendance was KAA Board Chairman, Hon. Caleb Kositany, who played a pivotal role in leading the Authority’s delegation during the deliberations.
During the engagement, KAAO presented a range of sector-wide issues impacting air operations across Kenya. Key concerns centered on the adequacy and modernization of airport infrastructure, operational bottlenecks, safety and security protocols, and service delivery gaps. The delegation emphasized the urgent need for targeted interventions, particularly at high-traffic facilities such as Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), while also noting that similar challenges exist across the broader network of airports.
The discussions provided a constructive platform for KAAO to highlight the real-world implications of current constraints on air operators, particularly in terms of flight delays, congestion, airport encroachment, cargo inefficiencies, and limited scalability to meet growing demand. The Board stressed the importance of policy alignment, responsive infrastructure planning, and a robust regulatory environment to ensure efficiency and safety across the aviation ecosystem.
Principal Secretary Ms. Teresia Mbaika delivered remarks reinforcing the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for aviation sector growth. She underscored the role of consistent stakeholder engagement, adherence to global safety and security standards, and investment in scalable infrastructure as the cornerstones of a vibrant and competitive aviation industry. Her vision reflected a forward-looking approach focused on positioning Kenya as a regional aviation hub and enhancing connectivity, tourism, and trade.
In his address, KAA Board Chair Hon. Caleb Kositany acknowledged the concerns raised and assured KAAO of the Board’s dedication to timely and practical responses. He reiterated the Authority’s intention to undertake thorough assessments of the identified issues, ensure active follow-up, and prioritize reforms that align with both national objectives and the operational needs of industry players.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment from all parties to strengthen collaboration, build trust, and advance meaningful reforms that will drive sustainable progress in Kenya’s aviation sector. KAAO expressed appreciation for the transparent and engaging dialogue, and looked forward to continuous engagement with the KAA Board and the Ministry of Roads and Transport to champion reforms that support a safe, efficient, and growth-oriented aviation ecosystem.
