KAA to debut its own ride-hailing app at JKIA

Airport taxi turf at JKIA is about to get shaken up as KAA builds its own ride-hailing app to claw back revenue from Uber and Bolt.

KAA jumps into ride-hailing at JKIA

• The Kenya Airports Authority is rolling out a transport app at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
• Tender for building and running the platform closed on February 26, 2026.
• The public-private partnership model lets KAA earn from every completed trip.
• Uber and Bolt currently dominate the airport pick-up scene.

How the new platform will work

• Yellow airport taxis will be the first drivers onboarded.
• Passengers can book through a mobile app, web portal, or terminal kiosks.
• Geofencing will limit pick-ups to approved taxi ranks.
• The system aims to cut congestion and tighten security control.

Tech features and super app plans

• Real-time fare estimates will curb price disputes.
• Live vehicle tracking boosts passenger safety.
• Automated dispatch will organize driver queues efficiently.
• Future upgrades may add lounge booking and flight updates.

High stakes for drivers and revenue

• JKIA handles about 8.6 million travelers each year.
• KAA wants to turn airport movement into a digital marketplace.
• New system could squeeze existing ride-hailing drivers.
• Authority sees fresh income streams tied to passenger services.