JKIA blackouts exaggerated

Kisumu,

Thursday December 14, 2023

KNA by Chris Mahandara

Kenya Airports Authority Managing Director, Henry Ogoye has dismissed backlash over power blackouts at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as exaggerated, stating that the airport has sufficient backup power for all facilities.

He emphasized that Kenyans are concerned about the time taken to transition from the Kenya Power mains to the backup, despite ongoing work to address the exaggerated power situation at the airport.

The airport has a 13 megawatt power backup, against a requirement of below 5 megawatts capable of powering the entire airport in case of a blackout, and is exploring automation methods.

A team of engineers on the ground, has actively worked on resolving the issue and assured Kenyans, of a permanent resolution now and the future.

In an interview with Kenya News Agency, Ogoye clarified that there was no cause for alarm, as all other airports managed by Kenya Airport Authority also have sufficient power backup.

At the same time, the Kenya Airways national carrier is enhancing service delivery and implementing plans to expand and modernize its infrastructure, since Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is one of Africa's busiest airports.

However, the airport has experienced three blackouts this year due to national power outages, causing disruptions in services at certain sections.

Courtesy; KNA