Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) Secretary General Francis Atwoli became an unexpected source of entertainment during the marathon negotiations that eventually ended the Kenya aviation workers’ strike.
It was well past midnight inside the negotiation room, and tension hung heavy in the air. Officials had been locked in marathon talks for hours, attempting to resolve the Kenya airport workers' strike that had grounded operations across the country.
A video shared by Labor Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua shows the veteran trade unionist dancing to Rhumba music at about 3.30am as government officials and union representatives remained locked in talks.
The negotiations, which began on Monday, August 31, stretched through the night and ended at about 5.30am with a return-to-work agreement.
Atwoli dances during tense talks
Mutua shared the video while reflecting on the long negotiations, which involved senior government officials, aviation executives and representatives of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU).
“At 3.30am, Mzee was entertaining us with a Rhumba dance. A real maestro,” Mutua wrote.
The moment offered a brief break from the discussions, which had been centered on resolving the grievances behind the industrial action.
Mutua also praised Atwoli for remaining at the talks until dawn, describing his contribution as part of the effort to reach an agreement.
The meeting was chaired by Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir and brought together officials from the aviation and labor ministries, KAWU, the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and Jambojet.
Strike disrupted airport operations
The negotiations came as the aviation workers’ industrial action disrupted operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other airports.
Passengers faced flight delays and cancellations, with thousands affected by the disruption. The union had raised several grievances, including concerns over collective bargaining negotiations, employment practices and workers’ welfare.
The government and the union eventually reached a Return-to-Work Agreement.
Under the deal, KAWU members were directed to resume their duties. The agreement also provided for the release of union agency fees held by KAA and the resumption of CBA negotiations between KAWU and KCAA.
Kenyans react to Atwoli’s moves
The late-night dance quickly became a talking point online, with Kenyans reacting to Atwoli’s energy despite the early hour.
Some users joked about his ability to remain lively after hours of negotiations, while others focused on the unexpected appearance of Rhumba in the middle of a high-level government meeting.
The reactions ranged from jokes about Atwoli's age and stamina to comments praising music for keeping people going during a difficult night.
The more serious outcome, however, was the agreement that brought the aviation workers' strike to an end and paved the way for normal airport operations to resume.
