Protests after KAA orders miraa traders to relocate from JKIA

Miraa traders have protested a move by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) removing them from conducting their business activities at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) by Monday next week.

Nyambere Miraa Traders Association (NYAMITA) Chairperson Kimathi Munjuri Sakijo confirmed receiving the letter outlining the cessation of miraa-related operations including the entry of miraa vehicles, processing, and packaging at JKIA and instead redirecting them to Mitchell Cotts Logistics Centre.

Sakijo opposed the directive saying it goes against a previous agreement made with the Head of Public Service and the KAA board chairperson, adding that the decision will disrupt miraa activities as they adjust to the new venue which is about 3km away from the airport.

“We ask them where this is coming from because we feel that there should be some consultation and we should walk the journey together. We did not know of any concerns that warranted that kind of a move,” Sakijo said.

“We told Mr. Felix Koskei that we don’t know the basis of this decision. We want to be very categorical, we have no problem with all these things as long as it is for the good of the government and the good of our industry. But as it is we are going into the rainy season and we don’t want any disruptions to our activities at this time.”

Sakijo wants the National Assembly to intervene and address what he perceives as ill-motives to push miraa out of the airport.

In the notice by KAA dated October 2, the State agency banned miraa and avocado traders from accessing the JKIA premises and gave them a one-week notice.

"Following the meeting held by the Head of Public Service with regards to the subject matter, Kenya Airports Authority wishes to advise all Miraa and Avocado shipments will be delivered to Mitchell Cotts Logistics Centre- Sunflag Warehouse adjacent to Hilton Garden Hotel Mombasa Road for sorting, packaging, and other freight processing activities to be ready-for-carriage,” KAA stated.

“The ready-for-carriage shipments will be transported to Mitchell Cotts Transit-Shed-JKIA for screening and onward movement to the respective flights as per bookings and destinations, with all necessary health and security protocols observed.”

KAA added: “No Miraa pick-ups will be allowed to access JKIA premises as discussed in the security meeting the above directive will be effective from the 9 of October 2023 and ALL exporters are mandated to comply.”