Kenya’s aviation sector is on the brink of major disruption as the Kenya Aviation Workers Union has issued a strike notice over a proposed deal with India’s Adani Airport Holdings to develop Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The union, representing airport workers, is vehemently opposed to the agreement, claiming it will lead to job losses and the introduction of foreign labor.
In a statement released on Monday, the union demanded the government scrap what it terms an “unlawful intended sale” of JKIA to Adani. The seven-day strike notice will take effect next Monday unless the government abandons the proposed deal entirely. The union has also called for the resignation of the entire board of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
The Kenyan government has maintained that the airport is not for sale and that no final decision has been made on the proposed public-private partnership with Adani. The deal, if approved, would see the Indian conglomerate invest in a second runway and upgrade the passenger terminal at JKIA, which has been operating beyond capacity.
The potential strike has raised concerns about its impact on Kenya Airways, the national carrier. The airline has yet to comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, a nationwide youth-led protest movement has also expressed opposition to the deal, citing a lack of transparency in the negotiation process. Last month, police intervened to prevent protesters from disrupting operations at JKIA.
As the situation escalates, all eyes are on the Kenyan government and Adani Airport Holdings to find a resolution that addresses the concerns of workers and ensures the smooth operation of the country’s vital aviation hub.