Kenya’s aviation sector has narrowly avoided a major disruption after the union representing airport workers decided to postpone a planned strike. The union had raised concerns about a proposed deal involving India’s Adani Airport Holding, which aims to upgrade Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The union fears that this agreement could lead to significant job losses and the introduction of non-Kenyan workers into the workforce.
JKIA, a key hub in Africa, is crucial for regional air traffic and the operations of the national carrier, Kenya Airways. A strike by airport workers would have caused substantial disruption, potentially affecting flights across the continent.
The Kenyan government has responded to the union’s concerns, denying claims that the airport is up for sale. Officials clarified that no final decision has been made regarding the proposed partnership, which is being explored as a “public-private partnership” to address the airport’s growing demands.
JKIA currently operates beyond its designed capacity of 7.5 million passengers annually, making upgrades and expansion essential. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has indicated that the investment proposal from Adani Airport Holding includes the construction of a second runway and significant enhancements to the passenger terminal. These improvements are seen as critical to maintaining and expanding JKIA’s role as a major aviation hub in Africa.
The union’s decision to delay the strike provides an opportunity for further dialogue with the government, aiming to address the workers’ concerns while ensuring that the necessary development of the airport proceeds in a way that benefits all stakeholders.