Flight disruptions persist at JKIA as KAWU calls off strike

Several flights have been cancelled at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) as aviation workers go on a go-slow strike. Passengers have been stranded for hours, some even spending the night at the airport, awaiting updates on their travel plans. The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has called off the strike after reaching an accord with key aviation sector entities and the government.

This agreement, signed following a meeting chaired by Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, involves the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Jambojet Limited and other officials from relevant ministries and trade unions. The deal includes the remittance of agency fees held by KAA to the union immediately, as well as the commencement of negotiations for a Collective Bargaining Agreement between KAWU and KCAA.

The Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) has withdrawn its initial guidance and issued new parameters for these talks. KAA management has pledged to honour and implement the outcomes of the collective bargaining talks. The union's recognition agreement with Jambojet is currently under judicial review, with parties expected to comply with any court decisions.

The government has promised to mediate in any disputes related to KAA's top management. KAWU has instructed its members to resume work immediately, with the hope of restoring normal airport operations.