Swala Nyeti Desk has gotten its hands on the proposed architectural designs for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), should Indian conglomerate Adani Group take over its operations.

The artistic impressions from Adani, contained in its Privately Initiated Proposal (PIP) to manage JKIA, illustrates a butterfly-inspired theme for the terminal even as Kenyans question the deal.


Adani says the new terminal design is inspired by Kenya’s butterflies and combines fluid lines and modern architecture to foster a harmonious blend of natural elegance and functionality.

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The proposed design reflects the delicate symmetry of butterfly wings, with sweeping, curved forms throughout the roof and façade, to embody the graceful movement of Kenya’s butterflies.


The architectural piece also integrates organic shapes into the airport’s walkways, ceilings, and layout to ensure a smooth flow through the terminal avoiding rigid structures for a natural feel.

Ever since details of the proposed Adani-JKIA lease came to light there have been wide opposition leading to a paralysing protest by airport workers in September disrupting flights.


In an effort to guarantee the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) employees of their job security, union officials committed to ongoing talks with government officials after calling off their strike.

Even as Kenyans question if Kenya will get value for money in the Sh238 billion “upgrade and expand” lease that will run for 30 years, Adani insists it is considering Kenya’s best interests.


This comes as Kenya Human Rights Commission has challenged the privatisation in court, arguing Kenya can independently raise the needed cash without handing over control of its key national asset.

After the 30-year lease period, Adani is set to retain an 18 per cent stake in JKIA’s aeronautical business, entitling it to a concession fee starting at Sh6 billion and rises by 10 per cent every five years.