By Shadrack Nyakoe
Kenya Airways has advised passengers to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at least four hours before their flight due to an anticipated protest dubbed “Occupy JKIA.” The protest, led by Gen-Z activists, aims to disrupt transport services along major roads leading to JKIA and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) at Syokimau.
The protesters plan to block Mombasa Road, a critical artery for accessing both JKIA and the SGR.
This action is part of their broader movement against President William Ruto, demanding the dismissal of all cabinet secretaries and the dissolution of parliament, among other grievances.
The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has emphasized the importance of arriving early due to heightened security checks and protocols at JKIA.
Passengers are encouraged to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight information.
Kenya Airways issued a statement saying, “Due to anticipated traffic disruptions on major roads leading to JKIA on Tuesday, 23rd July 2024, customers are advised to arrive at the airport at least four (4) hours before their scheduled flight departure time. Customers are also encouraged to plan extra time to avoid potential delays en route to the airport. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause and assure you that the safety and well-being of our crew and customers is our number one priority. Traveling customers can check in at the airport as early as four hours before flight departure, online via www.kenya-airways.com, or on their mobile devices via the KQ Mobile app from 30 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure.”
The airline also noted that while efforts are being made to ensure flights operate on schedule, passengers should expect potential delays due to the traffic disruptions.
Why Gen-Z Activists Plan to Occupy JKIA
The protest is reportedly in response to an alleged deal by President Ruto to grant control of JKIA to India’s Adani Group for 30 years. The airport, situated on an 11,600-acre piece of land, is at the center of a controversy involving alleged corruption.
Gen-Z activists claim that the deal involves Davis Chirchir replacing Murkomen as the Cabinet Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure to facilitate the transaction.
The Adani Group, which has faced numerous legal issues in India, is allegedly seeking to use JKIA’s title deed to secure loans for the project, which would be financed largely by taxpayer money and loans.
“The urgency by active citizens to speak out and stop the looters in their tracks has increased since the deal was exposed before its conclusion,” said a Gen-Z participant in a discussion on X.
The activists allege that the government has been warned to expect protests once the deal is finalized.