Operations at Kenya’s main international airport came to a halt on Wednesday after airport workers staged a demonstration in protest against a proposed agreement between the government and a foreign investor. Planes have been grounded since the strike began.
The government plans to enter into a build-and-operate agreement with India’s Adani Group. The deal would involve the renovation of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the construction of an additional runway and terminal, with the Adani Group managing the airport for 30 years.
The Kenya Airport Workers Union, which organized the strike, expressed concerns that the agreement would lead to job losses and result in “inferior terms and conditions of service” for the remaining employees.
Kenya Airways warned passengers on Wednesday of flight delays and potential cancellations due to the ongoing strike at JKIA, which serves as Nairobi’s primary airport.
Last week, workers had planned to strike but postponed their action to allow for discussions with the government. However, local media reported growing concerns after unidentified individuals were seen inspecting the airport alongside officials, fueling suspicions that preparations for the deal with Adani Group were already underway.
On Monday, the High Court temporarily halted the implementation of the agreement following a case filed by the Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission. The court will review the matter before any further action is taken.
