Other activities that have hurt the airline in the long run include KLM’s investment into the Kenya Airways, which Kirubi says, removed Kenya Airways from being a national carrier as benefits ripped no longer go to Kenyans.
But Kenya Airways needs more than just closing its skies and getting the public’s support. According to Dr Kirubi, the national carrier needs the kind of leadership that creates impact on everything it does.
“Good leadership will ensure that people are remunerated the right way. For instance, if the pilots are not generating revenues, why should they be asking for too much money? Everyone in the company should be paid according to the work done, regardless of their job titles.”
“Kenya Airways pays too many taxes which at the end of the day hurts the business.”
Asked on whether he would be interested in taking up a Director position, Dr Kirubi said that it is not a priority; “That is not important right now. I am a Chairman of many companies right now. But if asked on issues regarding its business, then I would help.”
But all is not gone as far as Kenya Airways is concerned. “There are very many positive things happening here. For instance, with all those challenges, there is a huge workforce that is dedicated to its job. Their services are also very good, they have not changed.”
Would the industrialist who is famous for buying shares left right and centre advice people who follow his cue and buy the Kenya Airways shares? “I only speak as far as what I purchase is concerned and could not tell people to buy or not to buy but shares are important and there is hope in Kenya Airways.”
