The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) is on high alert after a notice of a potential strike was issued by aviation workers, posing a significant threat to airport operations nationwide. The Authority has announced that contingency measures are in place to minimise disruption if the strike proceeds.
The strike threat stems from a contentious deal between the Kenyan government and India’s Adani Airport Holdings, which is set to manage the development of the country's largest airport. The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), representing airport staff, argues that the deal will lead to job losses and an influx of non-Kenyan workers.
On Friday, KAA reassured passengers and stakeholders that efforts are underway to maintain uninterrupted services at all Kenyan airports. "We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of service for all passengers and stakeholders at all our airport facilities across the country," KAA stated.
The union's grievances centre around a proposed Public-Private Partnership (PPP) that they believe threatens job security and violates Kenyan employment norms. The deal, announced last month, involves Adani Airport Holdings, an Indian company with plans to manage and expand Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Kenya’s busiest airport.
KAWU's strike notice, issued on Monday, demands the government halt the “unlawful intended sale” of JKIA. The union’s concerns are largely focused on the potential for job losses and the importation of foreign labour.
In response to the looming crisis, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua intervened, calling for dialogue to resolve the dispute.
On Thursday, Mutua held an urgent meeting with KAWU officials, including Secretary-General Moses Ndiema, to address the workers’ concerns.
"After listening to the union officials, it is clear they have genuine concerns," Mutua acknowledged. "However, it is regrettable that there seems to have been a communication breakdown, leading to misunderstandings."
Mutua highlighted that any agreement under the PPP should ideally create more job opportunities rather than diminish them. The union's strike is set to commence on Monday, August 19th, if the issues are not resolved.
In an effort to de-escalate the situation, Mutua has urged the aviation workers to consider dialogue over industrial action. “We need to resolve these issues through discussion and not through strikes,” he emphasised.
KAWU Secretary-General Ndiema agreed to consult with union members about the strike suspension. "We will consult our members on the issue of suspending the strike and communicate their decision by Friday," Ndiema said.
Mutua also urged other unions to seek alternative dispute resolution methods instead of resorting to strikes. He noted that many Cabinet Secretaries are still adjusting to their new roles, which could have contributed to the current misunderstandings.
The Cabinet Secretary has pledged to mediate between the workers, the Ministry of Transport, KAA, and Kenya Airways to address and resolve the concerns raised by the union.
