The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has raised concerns over executive compensation at Kenya Airways (KQ), revealing that 21 expatriates in senior roles earned a combined Ksh70.5 million monthly, totaling Ksh1.3 billion over 18 months. The figures, sourced from the union, highlight disparities between foreign and local pay scales amid the airline’s financial struggles.
KAWU’s data shows that none of the 21 expatriates earned less than Ksh1 million monthly. Notably, CEO Sebastian Mikosz receives Ksh8 million monthly, while KQ Board Chair Michael Joseph earns Ksh3 million—a stark contrast to his predecessor’s Ksh300,000 monthly salary. The union argues that these figures reflect broader issues in executive remuneration across Kenyan firms.
The allegations focus on foreign executives, including seven Polish consultants linked to Mikosz, who reportedly earned Ksh30 million monthly. KAWU contends that roles filled by expatriates could be handled by locals at significantly lower costs. The union’s claims come as KQ faces billions in debt, intensifying scrutiny of its management practices.
Similar patterns of high expatriate pay are observed in other sectors, with foreign executives leading companies like Safaricom, Airtel Kenya, and Telkom Kenya. The dispute underscores tensions between union demands for equitable pay and corporate reliance on international expertise.
None of the 21 expatriates on the list presented by KAWU earns less than Ksh1 million.
