Labour CS Addresses JKIA Workers’ Fears Amid Privatization Talks
Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua held a pivotal meeting with aviation sector leaders and airport workers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Wednesday.
The session, prompted by growing unease over potential privatization plans, aimed to address the concerns of over 1,000 aviation workers who fear the implications of a possible management takeover by the Indian-based Adani Group.
The workers, who requested the meeting, expressed their anxieties regarding the rumored public-private partnership (PPP) that could lead to the partial privatization of JKIA. They voiced concerns over job security, transparency, and the lack of clear communication from the authorities.
Dr. Mutua, who facilitated the discussion, acknowledged the workers’ fears, emphasizing the importance of transparent communication. “It is clear that the workers have not been fully informed about key issues that directly affect their welfare, particularly regarding the planned modernization of JKIA,” Dr. Mutua stated, highlighting the impact of rumors fueled by inadequate information.
The Cabinet Secretary assured the workers that he would communicate their concerns to the Ministry of Transport. He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that all relevant information regarding the PPP initiative would be made available to the employees. “I urge you to wait for the real information so that you can make informed decisions based on facts, not on rumors or propaganda,” he advised.
During the open session, workers candidly discussed their current challenges, with many expressing fears of potential job losses and changes in working conditions under the proposed PPP. Dr. Mutua reassured them that their rights would be safeguarded, reiterating the government’s commitment to fairness in the process.
In response to the workers’ calls for clarity, Dr. Mutua committed to organizing a follow-up meeting between the workers’ union leaders and the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport early next week. He urged the workforce to maintain calm and refrain from any drastic actions until they have received comprehensive information from their employer.
“We are committed to ensuring that your voices are heard and that your concerns are addressed appropriately. Your rights and employment terms will be protected throughout this process,” Dr. Mutua assured the workers.
The session concluded with Dr. Mutua thanking the workers for their openness and patience during this period of uncertainty. He reaffirmed his ministry’s dedication to transparency and fairness, promising to continue advocating for the workers’ welfare in the ongoing discussions about the future of JKIA.