Phidel Kizito

Kenya Airports Authority has announced that the planned strike on August 19th will not disrupt operations.


The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has announced that it has implemented contingency plans to ensure uninterrupted airport operations in light of ongoing discussions aimed at preventing a workers' strike scheduled for Monday.

In a press release issued on Friday, KAA reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining high service standards, regardless of whether the anticipated strike occurs.

"In anticipation of the potential strike action set for Monday, August 19, 2024, the authority has established essential contingency measures to guarantee that airport operations proceed smoothly," the statement indicated.

The conflict arises from the proposed leasing of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to a private entity.

On August 11, the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) issued a seven-day strike notice to KAA. The union's main concern revolves around the suggested public-private partnership with the Indian company Adani Airport Holdings Ltd.

"On Monday, we will be delivering a strike notice to KAA and all entities within the aviation sector. Last week, we provided the government with a seven-day period to address our concerns.

While we do not plan to initiate a strike on Monday, we will withdraw our members from work to formally present the strike notice," stated KAWU Secretary General Moses Ndiema.

He criticized the government for allegedly neglecting legal obligations regarding public participation and for failing to engage union members, whom he regards as vital stakeholders.

The union's demands include halting the privatization of JKIA and implementing management changes at both KAA and Kenya Airways.

Ndiema also raised alarms that Adani's intentions to privatize the airport could result in job losses, asserting that the company aims to downsize the workforce.

This situation follows previous protests against the proposed agreement.

On July 23, protesters organized an "Occupy JKIA" demonstration, motivated by widespread public concern regarding the alleged transfer of the airport's ownership to an Indian firm.

The government has assured citizens that it is exploring a public-private partnership aimed at modernizing the airport, improving passenger experiences, and boosting traffic.

Meanwhile, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has indicated that discussions are currently taking place among the Ministry of Roads and Transport, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, KAA Management, and the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU), with the intention of reaching an agreement prior to the planned strike.