Kenya's Aviation Union Threatens Strike Over Indian Deal for JKIA

Kenya's main aviation union plans to strike over a proposed agreement with India's Adani Airport Holdings to develop Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The union fears job losses and an influx of non-Kenyan workers. The government insists JKIA is not for sale and discusses a potential public-private partnership to upgrade the airport.

Kenya's main aviation union has announced plans to call a strike starting next Monday, protesting a proposed deal with India's Adani Airport Holdings to develop Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). This move could severely disrupt the East African travel hub.

The Kenya Aviation Workers Union, representing airport employees, argues the agreement, revealed last month, would lead to job losses and introduce non-Kenyan workers. The union has labeled the deal an 'unlawful intended sale' and is urging the government to abandon the proposal within a seven-day strike notice.

The government maintains that JKIA is not for sale but acknowledges ongoing reviews of a potential public-private partnership to upgrade the overstretched airport, currently operating beyond its 7.5 million passengers per year capacity. They highlighted the urgent need for improvement, citing issues like leaking roofs, and emphasized the proposal is still under consideration. Adani Airport Holdings could not be immediately reached for comment.

National carrier Kenya Airways might also face significant disruption if the strike proceeds. In its defense, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) stated that negotiations are ongoing to reach a resolution. Amid protests characterized by youth-led movements against proposed tax hikes, transparency in the Adani deal remains a contentious issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)