The Kenya Aviation Workers Union has gone on strike, effectively closing down Kenya's main airport. The workers want the Adani lease deal for Jomo Kenyatta International Airport permanently quashed and the management of Kenya Airports Authority sacked.
This strike is premature and unnecessary.
Firstly, the Adani idea is still under discussion and not finalised. In fact, the High Court has blocked any talks from proceeding.
Whether or not the Adani deal goes ahead, there are a lot of scare stories circulating. There is no reason that it should compromise national security – after all, Heathrow Airport is owned by a Spanish company Ferrovial. There will not necessarily be layoffs at JKIA and Adani, which operates eight airports in India, has pledged to retain all airport staff for at least two years.
Of course, it would be excellent if the state came up with the $2.5 billion to build a new runway and terminal but this is unlikely after the Gen Z protests froze all tax rises.
Secondly, is it right for the union to strike demanding a change of management at KAA? Isn't this a matter for shareholders to decide?
All in all, the strike seems misguided.
Quote of the day: "It is much easier to show compassion to animals. They are never wicked."
Haile Selassie
The Ethiopian emperor was deposed on September 12, 1974
