Kenya Airways (KQ) CEO Allan Kilavuka has disclosed the amount of money the corporation lost during the anti-Adani strike at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) initiated a strike on September 11, 2024, protesting the proposed 30-year lease to India's Adani Group
Speaking on Monday, September 23, Kilavuka said Kenya Airways lost Ksh80 million following the strike that caused widespread flight delays and cancellations.
"Strikes are very bad for us because not only are they disruptive and inconvenient to our customers.
"There are also very costly, for example this strike that happened the other time, if you look at the cost of time, rebooking, and paying compensation, it is significant. We estimate about at least Ksh 80 million in terms of cost for that one-day disruption," Kilavuka said.
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During the strike, workers expressed concerns that the deal would lead to job losses and deteriorating working conditions.
They demanded full disclosure of the lease details and an end to what they described as clandestine activities by Adani's representatives at the airport.
Union leader Moses Ndiema emphasized that the strike would continue until the agreement was rescinded, labeling it detrimental to Kenya.
"The strike is on, and all shifts have been suspended. Adani must go. That is not optional,” he said.
The government argues that the deal, which includes an investment for airport upgrades, is necessary for modernization and increased capacity.
However, critics assert that leasing such a strategic asset to a foreign entity undermines national interests and could prevent taxpayers from benefiting from future profits.
Amidst this turmoil, the High Court temporarily halted the deal pending further review, reflecting growing public dissent against the proposed acquisition.
