Strike suspension on the table as aviation workers engage govt over JKIA lease

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection has announced that the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) is considering suspending its strike, which was scheduled to begin on Monday, August 19, 2024, amid a growing dispute over the lease of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to a private operator.

This decision comes after the Union held talks with Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua on Wednesday to avert the looming strike. Mutua said he requested the union to suspend the strike action and instead pursue dialogue.

“After listening to the union officials, it is clear they have genuine concerns. However, it is regrettable that there seems to have been a communication breakdown, leading to misunderstandings. Workers at JKIA are understandably concerned about their job security, and any agreement under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) should aim to enhance job opportunities rather than diminish them,” he said.

He assured the union officials that they would have an opportunity to present their grievances to Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir in a meeting scheduled for Tuesday next week.

In response, KAWU Secretary-General Moses Ndiema acknowledged that the CS's request to suspend the strike was reasonable but emphasised that the leadership would need to consult its general members before making any final decision.

“As stakeholders, we are not just ordinary Kenyans; our concerns cannot be dismissed. The CS has requested us to pause the strike to allow for dialogue. However, as a union, we must consult our members for their direction. We are open and willing to engage in dialogue. We will consult our members on the issue of suspending the strike and communicate their decision by Friday,” Ndiema said.

Ndiema added, “We are pleased that the CS of Labour has arranged a meeting with the CS for Transport Davis Chirchir on Tuesday. We appreciate the government's willingness to listen to our demands.”

The union has demanded full involvement in any plans to privatise part or all of JKIA, with job security being their primary concern.

Mutua also pledged to mediate talks between the workers, the Ministry of Transport, the Kenya Airports Authority, and Kenya Airways to address the issues raised.

He urged unions in the country to avoid making strike action their first option in disputes, emphasising that many Cabinet Secretaries are still familiarising themselves with their new dockets following recent changes in government.

“There is a disconnect that could lead to misunderstandings and as a government, we want to work together with all unions to resolve the labour issues affecting the workers at our airport. My door is always open, and I’m ready to listen to all involved unions. Let's prioritise dialogue over strikes, with strikes being a last resort,” he said.

“Minister Chirchir is a receptive leader. Our goal is to establish a fair platform for discussion and agreement. Let’s give the new Minister time to familiarise himself with the issues, as he has just assumed office. He will then provide further guidance.”

KAWU pointed out that the government did not adhere to legal requirements for public participation and stakeholder engagement in the alleged leasing decision.

Ndiema also voiced concerns that the lease could lead to job losses, alleging that Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. intends to take over ground handling operations and reduce the workforce.