**Nairobi**: Kenya’s air cargo industry is undergoing significant changes with advancements at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Key stakeholders aim to improve operational efficiency and sustainability through new systems, infrastructure, and market expansions, positioning Kenya as a future leader in global logistics for perishable goods.
Kenya’s air cargo sector is on the brink of significant transformation, led by comprehensive initiatives at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Stakeholders, including Kenya Airports Authority and major airlines, are collaborating to develop a robust logistics ecosystem. Enhancements are set to incorporate advanced technology, expanded infrastructure, and new market opportunities that aim to bolster the nation’s air cargo capabilities.
As part of this strategic overhaul, JKIA plans to implement an Air Cargo Community System, inspired by successful operations in European hubs such as Brussels and Frankfurt. Jacob Bwana, the Commercial Manager – Cargo at Kenya Airports Authority, expressed that this new system will aim to improve operational efficiency through enhanced communication and data-driven transparency. “We are in the process of creating a very versatile air cargo community,” Bwana stated, noting that the ultimate goal is to achieve “time compression and quick and visible transactions.” He made these remarks during the recent Flower Logistics Africa 2025 conference held in Nairobi.
This innovative approach includes regular meetings with industry leaders to assist in forecasting cargo capacity and providing daily updates on shipments. Bwana underscored the importance of focusing on data analytics for informed decision-making among stakeholders, aiming to transform air cargo operations significantly, particularly within sectors like the flower export industry characterized by time-sensitive requirements.
Caleb Kositany, Chairman of the Kenya Airports Authority, stressed the need for stakeholder collaboration in driving the industry’s competitiveness and growth. “We want to ensure that cargo stakeholders are actively involved in key decisions that we make as the industry drivers,” Kositany remarked, advocating for increased engagement to form agile and competitive cargo hubs that can adapt to future demands.
He outlined plans that include expanding infrastructure, highlighting the necessity for modern pack houses, cold room facilities, and dedicated perishable cargo terminals at key airports such as Eldoret and Mombasa International. Furthermore, Kositany emphasised sustainability in logistics, advocating for investments in green energy solutions to mitigate carbon emissions associated with cold chain handling.
Peter Musola, Head of Cargo Commercial at Kenya Airways, reflected on the airline’s initiatives to enhance its cargo capacity amidst emerging market demands. In 2024, Kenya Airways successfully transported around 12,000 tonnes of livestock products, largely contributing to the growth of that sector, despite facing pandemic-related challenges that saw a drop in cargo capacity from 5,500 to 4,200 tonnes weekly.
Musola elaborated on Kenya Airways’ strategic expansions, detailing the introduction of two 737-800 freighters aimed at addressing the specific needs of the livestock export sector. Additionally, the airline is looking to penetrate new markets in the Middle East, with destinations including Jeddah, Riyadh, Muscat, and Bahrain, while ensuring that they capture a share of the growing European market.
Moreover, Patricia Odida, Chief Commercial Officer at Astral Aviation, announced plans for her airline’s expansion in air freight capacity to further support the horticulture and perishable goods sectors. Astral Aviation is set to introduce a Boeing 767-300 freighter later this year, ensuring reliable services for European markets.
This coordinated effort among JKIA, Kenya Airways, and Astral Aviation illustrates a promising trajectory for Kenya’s air cargo industry. By embracing innovation, enhancing collaboration, and focusing on sustainability, the stakeholders involved are adeptly positioning the country as a key player in the global logistics landscape for horticultural and other cargo exports. The strategic shifts currently underway not only seek to obstruct immediate challenges but also lay the foundation for sustained growth in this vital sector.
Source: Noah Wire Services
Subscribe to Industry Updates
