The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) held a critical meeting to discuss the recent developments concerning the acquisition of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. The agenda covered a range of pressing issues, including the eviction of the acting Managing Director of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Mr. Henry Ogoe, recent resignations from the KAA Board, and plans for a strike.
Financial details of JKIA were reviewed, revealing that the KAA boasts a net worth of KSh 1.105 trillion. This includes airport land valued at KSh 936 billion and KAA housing worth KSh 600 million. Additionally, the financial year 2023 saw KAA achieving a profit after tax of KSh 4.7 billion, indicating a robust financial status.
Proposals by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. were scrutinized, presenting significant changes to the management and operations of JKIA. These included a 30-year lease of JKIA with new terms, mandatory reapplication of KAA staff with reduced salaries, and revised regulations for KAA and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). Adani also proposed increased airport levies, an 18% permanent share acquisition post-lease, tax exemptions, and free work permits for their staff. They further suggested consolidating all ground handling services under Adani’s management and transferring all existing agreements to them. Additionally, the proposal demanded that KAA’s General Managers of Project and Engineering cease leading the ongoing negotiations.
In response to these proposals, KAWU adopted several resolutions. The union demanded the immediate vacation of office by the MD and the KAA Board within seven days. They called for all airport stakeholders and the business community to unite in opposing Adani’s takeover. Furthermore, KAWU scheduled a strike notice to be issued on Saturday, 10th, 2024, with plans to shut down all Kenyan airports and airstrips. Mandatory attendance at the next meeting for all stakeholders was emphasized, with a strong call to participate in the planned strike.
A union representative voiced strong opposition to Adani’s involvement, stating, “We don’t want Adani in Kenya, and if they are so good, then India is big enough for them. KAA has got enough money to fund their projects. We reject Adani and the government move!”
The meeting concluded with a unified stance against Adani’s proposed takeover, highlighting the union’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of KAA employees and the broader aviation sector in Kenya.
