Air travellers can breathe a sigh of relief after the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) suspended its planned nationwide strike following a deal with the government and employers.
The union announced the decision after signing a return-to-work formula on Monday with the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Labour and aviation employers.
The agreement means normal operations will continue at the country’s airports, including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), which had faced the threat of disruption if the strike had gone ahead.
“The union has suspended the industrial action following the signing of the return-to-work formula by all parties,” KAWU said after the meeting.
The strike had been called over a number of labour issues, including workers’ welfare and the implementation of previous agreements. However, the parties agreed to continue negotiations while employees remain on duty.
Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir welcomed the agreement, saying it reflects the government’s commitment to resolving labour disputes through dialogue.
The Ministry of Labour also urged both sides to honour the commitments contained in the return-to-work agreement to avoid future disruptions.
The latest breakthrough comes nearly a year after aviation workers staged protests over the proposed takeover of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport by India’s Adani Group, a plan that was later shelved by the government following public opposition and legal challenges.
With the strike now suspended, passengers are expected to continue travelling without interruption as negotiations between the union and employers continue.