The strike is expected to cause major disruptions to Kenya Airways, the country’s national carrier, and operations at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a crucial travel hub in Africa.
On July 23, protesters organised an “Occupy JKIA” demonstration in response to public outcry over reports that the government had “sold” the airport to the Indian company Adani Airport Holdings.
Moss Ndiema, head of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union, stated, “We will only reconsider our plan to strike if the deal with Adani Airport Holdings Limited is completely abandoned.” He emphasised that the union’s stance remains firm.
The unions announced that their formal strike notice will include demands related to the investment proposal, as well as calls for management changes at both Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) and Kenya Airways.
Moss Ndiema argued that privatising the airport could lead to job losses, alleging that Adani Airport Holdings plans to reduce the workforce at the facility.
Last month, the Kenya Airports Authority revealed that the investment proposal from Adani Airport Holdings includes the construction of a second runway at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, aiming to enhance the airport’s capacity and infrastructure.