Kenya: Exporters Warn JKIA Disruption Could Cost Kenya Global Markets

What the report says

Kenya’s fresh produce exporters are warning that the aviation workers’ go-slow at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi could undermine the country’s standing in global markets. The concern, reported by Capital FM and carried by AllAfrica, centers on delayed air shipments of flowers, fruits, vegetables, meat and other perishables that depend on fast handling to reach overseas buyers in good condition.

The Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya said the disruption at the country’s main international gateway could lead to missed connections, cancelled orders and spoilage before cargo reaches customers. Its leaders argued that the problem is not limited to passenger inconvenience, but could also affect export earnings, farmers’ incomes and long-term buyer confidence. The consortium urged the Kenya Airports Authority and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority to move quickly to restore reliable operations.

The warning came as a strike by the Kenya Aviation Workers Union entered its second day, affecting JKIA and other airports and leaving passengers stranded. According to the report, union members at the Kenya Airports Authority, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and Jambojet had downed tools after a framework agreement with the government collapsed. The union has raised issues including pay, job security, collective bargaining and career progression.

Authorities said they were trying to limit disruption while talks continued. Kenya Airways reported average flight delays of two to three hours on routes through JKIA because of air traffic control constraints. More broadly, the episode highlights how quickly aviation disruptions can affect Kenya’s export supply chains, especially for highly time-sensitive agricultural goods.