China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) has pushed its total contract value in Kenya beyond Sh1.2 trillion. The latest boost comes from the Sh154 billion Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) modernisation project.
The deal involves building a new terminal and upgrading existing facilities. Passenger capacity at the airport is expected to grow from 7.5 million to 22 million when works finish.
CRBC operates as a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). The parent firm holds a 99 per cent stake in CRBC with the remaining one per cent owned by China First Highway Engineering Company.
The company has delivered several landmark infrastructure schemes. These have transformed connectivity through rail, expressways and bypass networks.
Key projects include the Mombasa–Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway valued at Sh327 billion. The Nairobi–Naivasha SGR section stands at Sh180 billion. SGR extension to Kisumu will also be theirs.
The Nairobi Expressway cost Sh80 billion and has eased traffic between the airport and Westlands. Other roads cover the Southern Bypass at Sh20 billion, Eastern Bypass at Sh20 billion and Western Bypass at Sh17 billion.
Additional works include the Talanta Stadium worth Sh45 billion, Makupa Bridge at Sh5 billion, Kenyatta Avenue Viaduct and Haile Selassie Underpass. These initiatives support urban mobility and event hosting.
CRBC is also involved in the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit toll highway. The 233-kilometre project is valued at Sh170 billion under a consortium arrangement.
The firm may pursue upcoming schemes such as the Athi Dam in Tsavo East National Park and the Nithi Bridge. Success would further extend its role in water and transport infrastructure.
CRBC entered Kenya during the Kibaki administration and has grown into a leading contractor. Its projects frequently use Chinese loans or public-private partnership models.
The dominance of Chinese firms has triggered discussions in Parliament. Bills aimed at protecting local contractors have not passed, leaving big contracts with international players.
Kenyan contractors often participate as subcontractors or on smaller packages. The largest projects still go to firms like CRBC that bring financing and technical expertise.
The JKIA modernisation will strengthen Kenya’s primary international gateway. It complements the rail and road networks already delivered by CRBC.
Improved infrastructure lowers costs for material transport and labour movement in construction projects. Reliable links support housing development and industrial expansion in connected regions.
Kenya pursues large-scale works to address development needs. Partnerships with companies like CRBC provide the scale and speed required for ambitious infrastructure goals.
The growing contract book reflects sustained investment in the built environment. It also raises questions about strategies to grow local capacity alongside foreign involvement.
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