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Nairobi, Kenya – February 17, 2026 – Industrial action resolved at JKIA , Operations resume

Ministry News / Tue, 02/17/2026 - 13:11

In the past one and half days , industrial action by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has caused some disruptions to Kenyan airspace and key aerodromes, particularly Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), a vital regional hub.

The Ministry of Roads and Transport notes these disruptions and extends apologies to all affected travelers, airlines, and stakeholders. Cabinet Secretary Hon. Davies Chirchir alongside the Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Ms. Terry Mbiaka convened an urgent conciliatory meeting with KAWU, the State Department of Labour led by Principal Secretary  -  Mr. Mwadime , Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). All parties formally agreed to an immediate return to work.

“Aviation contributes immensely to the economy of the country and we are committed to ensure that the sector remains stable", reaffirmed CS Davies Chirchir.

Key Agreements

  • Airport operations at JKIA and other facilities resume immediately
  • Immediate action includes the level of representation of KCAA  staff reviewed to make consideration for grades previously proposed and agreed but  not previously included.
  • Ministry of Labour will assist in a conciliatory process to discuss all issues raised to an amicable solution, KAWU commits to a round-table towards resolution of worker concerns.
  • On - going dialogue prioritizes passengers, aviation reliability, and national interests.

The KAWU Secretary General, Moss Ndiema appreciated  the government's goodwill in engaging the union promptly and demonstrating genuine interest in our workers. ‘ We acknowledge the involvement of the ministries of Roads and Transport, Labor and the leadership of both KCAA and KAA. We are happy about the successful engagements and in effect the KAWU calls off the strike based  on  the terms that have been agreed in the return-to-work formula, we are satisfied with the way forward that will involve the Ministry of Labour’.  He added that the dialogue reaffirmed shared commitment to fair resolution and sector stability.

Kenya's aviation sector drives economic growth, contributing to GDP via tourism, trade, cargo, and jobs. With millions of passengers and billions in annual freight, swift resolution safeguards investor confidence and livelihoods.

 

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