NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya’s aviation sector narrowly avoided a major disruption as the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) opted to delay a planned strike after a tense standoff with the government over the proposed leasing of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Indian firm Adani Airport Holdings.
The decision to postpone the strike, originally set for September 1, 2024, follows a breakthrough in talks on August 29, where the government conceded to KAWU’s demands by providing key documents related to the controversial deal.
The union’s hardline stance forced the government to release critical documents, including the Adani concession agreement and the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) feasibility study.
This move is seen as a significant win for KAWU, which has been vocal in its opposition to Adani’s takeover, arguing that the deal was shrouded in secrecy and could result in massive job losses.
“We were given the Adani concession agreement, KAA feasibility study, and some other documents,” said KAWU Secretary General Moss Ndiema. “We have deliberated on the issue, and it is our resolution that we will further delay our strike action.”
Despite the government’s concessions, KAWU remains firm in its stance, with Ndiema emphasizing that the union is determined to halt the project.
He has called for a pause on all ongoing stakeholder engagement until the documents are thoroughly scrutinized.
KAWU’s decision to postpone the strike marks the third time the union has delayed action. On August 12, the union issued a formal seven-day strike notice to the KAA and Kenya Airways (KQ), citing the planned leasing of JKIA as a key reason for the protest.
The union alleges that the deal with Adani Airport Holdings is being conducted in an unlawful manner, lacking transparency and proper consultation with stakeholders.
One of the union’s primary concerns is the potential for job losses, which could significantly impact the livelihoods of the airport’s workers.
Additionally, there have been allegations of impropriety and gross misconduct in the provision of security services at JKIA, further fueling the union’s opposition to the deal.
As KAWU continues to scrutinize the documents provided, the union has made it clear that it will not hesitate to mobilize its members if their concerns are not adequately addressed.
The strike remains a looming threat, contingent on the outcome of further negotiations and the union’s review of the documents.
For now, operations at JKIA remain uninterrupted, but the future of the airport’s management hangs in the balance.
