The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) is considering suspending their planned strike scheduled for Monday, August 19th following talks with Labour Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alfred Mutua.
In a statement made on Thursday August 15, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection revealed that the CS met with KAWU officials, led by Secretary-General Moses Ndiema.
“Dr. Mutua held a crucial meeting lasting one and a half hours at his office with KAWU officials, led by Secretary-General Moses Ndiema, as the government seeks to find common ground with the aviation workers,” read the statement.
During the meeting, the workers expressed their concerns regarding the potential privatization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) through a partnership with the Indian firm Adani.
The union fears that this move could jeopardize job security for aviation workers.
Mutua acknowledged their concerns, assuring them that they would have the opportunity to present their grievances to Transport CS Davis Chirchir in a meeting scheduled for the following Tuesday.
“After listening to the union officials, it is clear they have genuine concerns, however, it is regrettable that there seems to have been a breakdown in communication, leading to misunderstandings,” said CS Mutua.
“Workers at JKIA are understandably concerned about their job security, and any agreement under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) should aim to enhance job opportunities rather than diminish them.”
Also, he pledged to mediate discussions between the workers, the Ministry of Transport, the Kenya Airports Authority, and Kenya Airways so as to address the union’s concerns.
In the meantime, the CS encouraged the union to reconsider their strike and instead engage in further dialogue.
Additionally, he emphasized the importance of dialogue over strikes, especially since many Cabinet Secretaries are still adjusting to their new roles.
In response to the CS’s request the union leadership agreed to consult their members before making a final decision.
KAWU Secretary-General Moses Ndiema acknowledged CS Mutua’s request to suspend the strike but stressed that the decision to strike was not taken lightly.
“We will consult our members regarding the suspension of the strike and communicate their decision by Friday,” said Ndiema.
