Nkatha and Tonioh stranded in Russia following JKIA aviation workers’ strike
By Ascah Mwango, February 17, 2026Kenyan TikTok dancers, Nkatha and Tonioh, are stuck in Russia after their flight back home was cancelled due to travel disruptions at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.
The dancers were scheduled to return on Monday, but their flight was first rescheduled to Tuesday, February 17, 2026 and then cancelled. The delays come amid a go‑slow by aviation workers at the airport, affecting both domestic and international flights.
The Alfa House, which manages the dancers, confirmed on TikTok that the team is stranded abroad because of the cancellations.
“Our flight was rescheduled from last night to Wednesday,” Nkatha said on her TikTok.
“Our team is stranded in Russia, their flight has been cancelled because of the strike at JKIA,” the Alpa House stated.
The disruptions are caused by a labour action by members of the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU). Workers are slowing key airport tasks after negotiations stalled over long‑standing grievances, including delayed union dues and demands for better working conditions.
Flights in and out of JKIA have faced major delays and cancellations since Monday. Airlines, including Kenya Airways, have advised passengers to check flight status before travelling.
Airport authorities say contingency plans are in place to keep essential aviation safety functions running. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority is working to clear the backlog of delayed flights, but the situation remains uncertain as the go‑slow continues.
Passengers at the airport have faced long waits, confusion, and frustration.