Flights grounded at Kenya's main airport as workers protest against Adani deal
Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport has been brought to a standstill after workers went on strike to protest a deal with Indian conglomerate Adani Group
The workers are protesting the government's decision to award Adani Group the contract to operate the airport's second terminal, arguing that the deal is unfair and will lead to job losses
The strike has caused major disruption to air travel in Kenya, with dozens of flights being cancelled or delayed. Passengers have been stranded at the airport, and many have had to rebook their flights or find alternative routes.
The workers are demanding that the government cancel the deal with Adani Group and open up the bidding process to other companies. They are also calling for the resignation of Transport Cabinet Secretary James Macharia, who they accuse of corruption and mismanagement.
The government has defended the deal with Adani Group, saying that it is the best way to improve the efficiency and profitability of the airport. The government has also said that it is committed to protecting the interests of workers and that it will not tolerate any illegal or disruptive behavior.
The strike is expected to continue until the government agrees to the workers' demands. It is unclear how long the strike will last, but it is likely to cause significant disruption to air travel in Kenya.
The Adani Group is a multinational conglomerate based in India. The group has interests in a wide range of industries, including energy, ports, and logistics.
The deal with Adani Group to operate the second terminal at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport was signed in October 2021. The deal is worth $330 million and will see Adani Group operate the terminal for 25 years.
The workers' strike is the latest in a series of protests against the Adani Group's operations in Kenya. In 2020, workers at the Port of Mombasa went on strike to protest the Adani Group's takeover of the port.
The Adani Group has faced criticism for its environmental practices in India. The group has been accused of polluting the environment and displacing local communities.
The workers' strike at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is a sign of growing opposition to the Adani Group's operations in Kenya. It is unclear how the government will respond to the strike, but it is likely to put pressure on the Adani Group to address the concerns of workers and local communities.
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