Aviation Workers call off strike after KAWU reaches deal with the Transport and Labour Ministries
NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 17 – The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has signed a return to work formula, officially concluding the Air Traffic Control (ATC) staff strike that disrupted operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
The resolution follows after a mediation meeting led by the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Transport, Mr. Davis Chirchir with participation from Ministry of Labour, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Airports Workers Union (KAWU), and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
In the past one and half days, industrial action by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has caused some disruptions to Kenyan airspace and key aerodromes, particularly Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), a vital regional hub.
“The Ministry of Roads and Transport notes these disruptions and extends apologies to all affected travelers, airlines, and stakeholders”.
Cabinet Secretary Hon. Davis Chirchir alongside the Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Ms. Terry Mbiaka convened an urgent conciliatory meeting with KAWU, the State Department of Labour led by Principal Secretary Mr. Mwadim, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) where all parties formally agreed to an immediate return to work.
“Aviation contributes immensely to the economy of the country and we are committed to ensure that the sector remains stable’, reaffirmed CS Davis Chirchir.
The Key Agreements includes: Airport operations at JKIA and other facilities resume immediately Immediate action includes the level of representation of KCAA staff reviewed to make consideration for grades previously proposed and agreed but not previously included.
Ministry of Labour will assist in a conciliatory process to discuss all issues raised to an amicable solution, KAWU commits to a round-table towards resolution of worker concerns. On-going dialogue prioritizes passengers, aviation reliability, and national interests.
KAWU Secretary General, Moss Ndiema appreciated the government’s goodwill in engaging the union promptly and demonstrating genuine interest in our workers.
“We acknowledge the involvement of the ministries of Roads and Transport, Labor and the leadership of both KCAA and KAA, We are happy about the successful engagements and in effect the KAWU calls off the strike based on the terms that have been agreed in the return-to-work formula, we are satisfied with the way forward that will involve the Ministry of Labour”. He added.
Kenya’s aviation sector drives economic growth, contributing to GDP via tourism, trade, cargo, and jobs. With millions of passengers and billions in annual freight, swift resolution safeguards investor confidence and livelihoods.
“KAA commends all parties for their constructive engagement Operations are now normalizing across all the airports. Passengers are requested to contact their airlines for the latest flight schedules”.
