Kenya airport strike ends, flights resume

Aviation workers in Kenya have called off their strike, which disrupted air travel, affecting thousands. Operations are expected to normalize at major airports, including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The strike by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) began Sunday, escalating through Monday and causing widespread flight delays and cancellations. The strike stemmed from long-standing grievances: unfair staff hiring, inadequate compensation, and proposed management changes for JKIA. KAWU cited concerns over job security and terms. A key contention was failure to finalize a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the KCAA, with staff lacking salary increments since 2015. The union also cited a lack of cooperation from KAA and Jambojet on worker recognition and benefits. The disruption caused uncertainty for travelers, many stranded. The economic impact was significant, as JKIA is a critical hub for regional and international travel, essential for Kenya's tourism, trade, and business. A return-to-work agreement was signed Tuesday morning by KAWU, the Ministry of Transport, KCAA, KAA, and Jambojet. Under its terms, KAWU directed employees to resume duties immediately. Key resolutions include immediate remittance of union agency fees by KAA and the commencement of CBA negotiations between KAWU and KCAA. Both parties also agreed to abide by an ongoing court determination on trade union recognition between KAWU and Jambojet. The government also pledged to address KAA top management issues, with all parties committing to maintain industrial peace and resolve outstanding matters through dispute resolution.