Kenya aviation union on strike next week over deal with Indian Adani airport holdings

Kenya’s main aviation union has announced a strike starting next Monday, in protest against a proposed deal with India’s Adani Airport Holdings to develop Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The union claims the agreement could lead to job losses and an influx of non-Kenyan workers.

The Kenyan government insists the airport is not for sale and no final decision has been made on the public-private partnership. However, the union demands complete abandonment of the Adani deal and the resignation of the Kenya Airports Authority board.

The proposed agreement aims to add a second runway and upgrade JKIA’s passenger terminal, addressing capacity issues. The government cites financial constraints as a reason for considering private investment.

This situation has also drawn criticism from a youth-led protest movement concerned about transparency. The potential strike threatens significant disruption to Kenya’s aviation sector, including national carrier Kenya Airways.

The controversy highlights tensions between infrastructure development needs and concerns over foreign involvement in critical national assets. As negotiations continue, the outcome could have far-reaching implications for Kenya’s aviation industry and economic development strategy.

The government’s statement on the proposal emphasizes JKIA’s urgent need for improvements, citing incidents like leaking roofs causing “international embarrassment.” The estimated $2 billion modernization cost has led to the consideration of private partnerships amidst tight fiscal conditions.