The Kenya Aviation Workers' Union (KAWU) suspended the social movement which it envisaged following an agreement with several actors in the sector. Negotiations must now open with airlines and airport authorities in order to resolve the ongoing disputes.

In Kenya, a strike by aviation workers, which was expected to potentially disrupt airport operations from the end of July, was suspended following an agreement between the Kenya Aviation Workers' Union (KAWU), employers and public bodies in the sector. The union confirmed the withdrawal of its notice of strike, thus avoiding, at this stage, the risk of disruption of air traffic and airport services in the country.

The agreement provides for the opening of further discussions on workers' claims. Negotiations with two airlines are scheduled to begin on 28 July, while trade with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) is scheduled for 29 July.

Further discussions should also focus on collective agreements and issues related to conditions of employment in the sector. The parties have a period of 30 days to implement the commitments provided for in the return to work agreement.

KAWU had filed notice of strike because of several disputes, including the deployment of National Youth Service (NYS) and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel to fire control services at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other airport platforms.

The union also called for the reinstatement of four employees and denounced violations of collective agreements. Possible mobilisation could have affected flight operations, passenger assistance, freight processing and other airport services.

The suspension of the movement thus avoids an immediate interruption of operations at Kenyan airports and opens a new phase of dialogue between the parties. The outcome of the negotiations will determine the resolution of the union's claims and the possible definitive end of the social conflict between the workers and several actors in the air sector.