Kenya denies reports linking Wicknell Chivayo to US$2.8 billion airport contract

The Kenyan government has moved to shut down reports claiming that a company linked to controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo was awarded a US$2.8 billion infrastructure contract, describing the allegations as false and misleading.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said authorities were concerned by media reports that had circulated widely across the region and sought to set the record straight.

“The Government has taken note with serious concern reports appearing in sections of the media, particularly in the Standard newspaper,” Mwaura said.

The government directly addressed claims that Chivayo’s company, IMC, had secured the multibillion-dollar contract, categorically denying any involvement by the Zimbabwean-linked entity.

“We wish to clarify that the company referred to in those reports did not participate in this procurement process as a bidder and has no role, involvement or association whatsoever with this project,” the statement said.

Kenyan authorities stressed that the company was not among the firms that submitted bids for the tender and therefore could not have been considered during the procurement process.

According to the government, all bidders were required to disclose the identities of every party involved in their bids, including joint venture partners and associated entities.

Officials said none of the submissions contained any reference to the company named in the media reports.

The government also criticised media organisations that published the allegations, accusing them of failing to verify information before publication.

“It is important that media houses uphold their duty to provide accurate and verified information to the public and avoid spreading misinformation, whether intentionally or through negligence,” the statement said.

Members of the public were urged to ignore the reports and instead rely on official government communication and verified sources of information.

Authorities further called on media outlets that carried the story to retract the claims.

Despite the controversy, the Kenyan government reiterated its commitment to completing the infrastructure project through a transparent and competitive procurement process.

“The Government remains fully committed to delivering this landmark project in a transparent, competitive and accountable manner, ensuring value for public investment while positioning Kenya to remain the premier aviation hub of East Africa for generations to come,” the statement said.

The denial comes after widespread speculation in regional media linked Chivayo and IMC to the high-profile project, triggering debate across political and business circles in several African countries.