Kenya Airways concludes successful CBAs negotiations

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

Kenya Airways PLC is delighted to announce the successful completion of negotiations for four out of five Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs), with the invaluable support of our social partners. The most recent achievement was reached with the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) in Kenya. Throughout the year, we also engaged with other unions, including the General Transport, Petroleum, and Chemical Workers Union (GTPCWU) in Ghana, the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) in Nigeria, and the Amalgamated and Transport General Workers’ Union (ATGWU) in Uganda.

This accomplishment is a testament to the collaborative efforts of both parties, especially in light of the challenging period brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted the aviation sector.

Kenya Airways also acknowledges the resilience and dedication of our unions in navigating the complexities and challenges facing our industry today. This achievement underscores our commitment to nurturing a harmonious and collaborative work environment. The signing of these agreements symbolizes a shared vision of progress, mutual respect, and a dedication to the well-being of our employees. It demonstrates what can be achieved when we unite, listen to one another, and work towards a common objective.

During the signing ceremony with KAWU officials, Kenya Airways Group MD and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, remarked, “KAWU has shown great patience and support for the management’s efforts to revitalize the airline. They have collaborated with us to systematically address employee welfare. We both share the conviction that we are aligned in ensuring the airline’s soundness and sustainability, thereby securing the future of our workforce.”

Kenya Airways also commends KAWU and their leadership, led by Secretary General Moss Ndiema, for their understanding of economic realities and the significance of affordability and sustainability in these agreements, which are integral to the continued success and continuity of the airline.

In response, the Secretary General expressed satisfaction, stating, “KAWU is pleased that, after 8 years since 2014, we have successfully negotiated the long-awaited CBA. We firmly believe that the offer presented by Kenya Airways management is the best achievable under the current economic conditions, serving as evidence of the positive industrial relations at Kenya Airways.”

Key points addressed in the CBAs included staff welfare, fair compensation, affordability, and sustainability.

The recently concluded CBAs will come into effect in December 2023 and will run for the next two years, from 2023 to 2025, providing a stable framework for both Kenya Airways and KAWU. The agreement will grant KAWU members a 22% increase in their basic salary, among other allowances, over the two-year period. This period will allow both parties to focus on our shared goals and objectives while prioritizing the welfare and interests of our dedicated workforce.

Kenya Airways is steadfast in its commitment to fostering a collaborative and mutually beneficial relationship with our social partners, including KAWU, and eagerly anticipates strengthening this partnership in the years ahead. We appreciate the professionalism, dedication, and constructive approach demonstrated by KAWU throughout this negotiation process.

As we celebrate this milestone, Kenya Airways remains resolute in its commitment to providing exceptional service to our valued customers and contributing to the growth and development of the aviation industry in Kenya.

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