A cloud of uncertainty has descended over Kenya's aviation sector as the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) issued a fresh seven-day strike notice, threatening to bring operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to a grinding halt. The union’s ultimatum, directed at the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), warns of a "complete shutdown" of the airspace if their demands regarding long-overdue salary reviews are not met.

This is not just a labour dispute; it is a potential economic cardiac arrest. JKIA is the nerve center of East African trade and tourism. A total grounding of flights would hemorrhage millions of shillings daily and severely damage Kenya's reputation as a reliable logistics hub.

The Core of the Dispute

KAWU Secretary General Moses Ndiema did not mince words, declaring that the union is ready to "ground everything and shut down all Kenyan airports." The grievances are deep-rooted, centering on the failure of the KCAA to implement salary increments that workers claim have been stalled for over 11 years. The union accuses the authority of unfair labour practices and bad faith negotiations, following the collapse of recent mediation talks.

The timing is critical. This fresh notice comes against a backdrop of simmering tension in the sector, exacerbated by previous unrest regarding the proposed Adani lease deal. The workers feel marginalized and ignored, and this strike is their lever to force the government's hand.

Impact and Consequences

If the strike proceeds, the consequences will be immediate and severe. Domestic and international flights would be grounded, stranding thousands of passengers and disrupting the flow of critical cargo, including horticultural exports. The union has made it clear that they will not be swayed by empty promises this time, demanding concrete action on their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

• The Threat: A total shutdown of Kenyan airspace and ground operations.
• The Grievance: 11-year stagnation in salary reviews and failed CBA negotiations.
• The Stakes: Massive economic disruption to tourism and cargo sectors.

Government on the Clock

The ball is now firmly in the court of the Ministry of Transport and the KCAA. With the clock ticking on the seven-day notice, frantic behind-the-scenes maneuvering is expected to avert the crisis. However, the union’s militant stance suggests that without a tangible financial offer, Kenya’s skies could go quiet by next week.

"We will close the airspace," Ndiema warned, a statement that has sent shivers through the tourism and business communities. The coming days will determine whether dialogue can prevail over disruption.