Who Is Gautam Adani? The Power Behind Adani Group
Adani has been circulating heavily among Kenyans in recent weeks, but not for positive reasons, as it is linked to several controversies.
On Wednesday, September 11, the tension escalated when Kenya’s aviation workers went on strike, protesting the contentious ‘Adani deal.’
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir admitted that the Kenyan government has not signed any official agreement with the Indian multinational Adani Group for the KSh 260 billion airport takeover. According to Chirchir, discussions are still in the preliminary stages.
Despite this, aviation workers are not yet clear, as the government continues to emphasize the potential benefits of leasing Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the Adani Group, owned by billionaire Gautam Adani.
But who exactly is Gautam Adani?
Adani is a renowned Indian business magnate, heading the Adani Group, a leader in port development and operations in India.
His business ventures date back to 1981 when he teamed up with his older brother to manage a plastics unit in Ahmedabad, India.
Their enterprise gained momentum after the Indian government eased import license restrictions, leading Adani to launch Adani Exports in 1985, initially focused on agricultural and energy commodities.
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Over time, Adani Holdings diversified, entering the power generation sector in 2006.
Leveraging its vast resources, the Adani Group acquired a 74% stake in Mumbai International Airport, the second busiest airport in India, following Delhi Airport.
The Adani Group’s portfolio includes Adani Power, Adani Total Gas, Adani Ports, Adani Energy Solutions, and Adani Airports Holdings, among others, generating an impressive $32 billion (KSh 4.14 trillion) in annual revenue.
As of 2024, Forbes lists Gautam Adani as the wealthiest individual in India, with a fortune of $85.7 billion (KSh 11.01 trillion), competing for the 20th spot globally alongside French entrepreneur Françoise Bettencourt Meyers and family.
Projections indicate that Adani could potentially become the second person in history to reach trillionaire status by 2028.
However, the rise of the Adani Group has not been without controversy. The company faced accusations of stock manipulation in 2023, allegations it strongly denied.
Additionally, a report from Australian senators highlighted concerns about Adani’s involvement in offshore tax havens, environmental harm, and human rights violations.
Who Is Gautam Adani? The Power Behind Adani Group
