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Kenya’s largest aviation union announced Sunday a two-week delay of a planned strike initially set to commence on Monday. This postponement aims to allow time for discussions with the government regarding a contentious proposal involving India’s Adani Airport Holdings in the redevelopment of the country’s primary airport.
The union, which represents a significant number of airport employees, has voiced strong opposition to the proposed partnership with Adani Airport Holdings, citing concerns over potential job losses and the introduction of non-Kenyan workers. The deal, revealed last month, has stirred apprehension among union members.
Moss Ndiema, the union’s secretary-general, stated on Sunday that the strike had been temporarily put on hold to engage in talks with the Kenya Airports Authority and the Ministry of Transport. He also cautioned that if these negotiations do not yield an acceptable agreement, the union would consider reissuing a strike notice.
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which serves as a crucial aviation hub for East Africa, could face severe disruptions if a strike were to occur, impacting flights and travel across the region.
The Kenyan government has assured the public that the airport is not being sold and that no definitive decision has been made about the proposed public-private partnership with Adani. The proposed deal includes plans for Adani to construct a second runway and enhance the airport’s passenger terminal.
Officials have stressed the urgent need for upgrades at the airport, which currently handles more passengers than its designed capacity of 7.5 million annually. The anticipated improvements, crucial for accommodating growing traffic, are expected to require an investment of $2 billion.
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