The East African Business Council (EABC) has raised concerns over the ongoing strike at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), urging stakeholders to resolve the dispute to prevent economic fallout. The walkout by Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) members stems from fears of job losses amid Kenya Airways' (KQ) proposed management takeover of the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA).
EABC emphasized that the airport's operational stability is critical for regional trade and mobility. "The current situation risks reducing flight frequencies, routes, and connectivity, while driving up costs for businesses and travelers," the council stated. It highlighted potential disruptions to cargo logistics, which could elevate consumer prices and weaken the East African Community's (EAC) trade competitiveness.
KAWU also accused KQ of owing the KAA Sh4 billion in unpaid airport usage fees, questioning how the airline plans to settle the debt following the takeover. The union argues the unresolved financial obligations and job security issues threaten the airport's efficiency and regional economic interests.
The standoff underscores tensions between labor groups and corporate restructuring efforts, with EABC calling for urgent dialogue to mitigate broader economic consequences.
