In recent events at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), a strike by aviation workers has led to the cancellation of numerous flights, leaving hundreds of travelers stranded. The strike was initiated due to concerns over a proposal to lease the airport to a specific group for 30 years, leading to fears of potential mass layoffs.
The disruption caused by the strike has impacted both international and domestic flights, with minimal flight activity observed at the airport according to flight tracking data. Kenya Airways issued a notice to passengers about possible delays and cancellations, attributing them to the ongoing staff action.
Efforts by the government to halt the strike were unsuccessful, with the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) demanding the cancellation of the proposed deal. A high court in Kenya has suspended the concession for the lease pending further rulings, as the deal faces opposition over certain clauses restricting airport development for 30 years.
While the government defends the lease as a means to expand JKIA amidst budget constraints, it maintains that a final decision on the deal has not been made. Both Kenyan and Indian officials have been involved in due diligence processes, indicating the advanced stages of the deal.
The KAWU has called for a halt to any undisclosed activities by the group around JKIA, emphasizing transparency in the process.