Airport workers call off strike after last-minute talks with KAA, guaranteeing smooth operations for travelers

The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has called off its planned strike after striking a deal with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), ending weeks of tension in the aviation sector.

KAA Managing Director Mohamud Gedi confirmed the breakthrough on Wednesday night, saying emergency talks held at the eleventh hour yielded a truce.

“The Kenya Airports Authority is pleased to announce the successful resolution of the labor matter with KAWU following constructive and collaborative deliberations,” Gedi said in a statement.

The development comes after workers suspended their strike notice on September 30 to allow for negotiations, following a court directive that required the two parties to resolve their issues before any industrial action could proceed. A conciliation report was expected in court on Wednesday ahead of a scheduled session on Thursday.

KAWU had earlier accused the KAA board of incompetence, citing six grievances, among them poor governance. The union’s secretary general Moss Ndiema said members had “lost faith” in the board and were ready to down their tools.

According to Gedi, the breakthrough was achieved with the intervention of the Ministry of Roads and Transport, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, which was directed by the court to mediate between the two parties.

KAA reassured passengers, airlines, and stakeholders that airport operations across the country will continue smoothly. “Passengers, airlines, and partners can be assured of our commitment to excellent customer experience across all KAA-managed airports. The Authority remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety, security, and service excellence,” the statement read.

Industrial action by aviation workers often causes widespread disruption. In September 2024, hundreds of travelers were stranded at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) after a strike crippled both domestic and international flights.