Kenya Airways Unveils The First Standalone Sustainability Report In Africa

Kenya Airways has made history by becoming the first organisation on the continent to launch the first-ever stand-alone and externally assured Sustainability Report for the financial year ending December 31, 2024.

The report marks a significant milestone in the airline’s commitment to transparency, environmental responsibility, social equity, and sustainable growth in ESG reporting.

Key Highlights from the Sustainability Report

• Financial Sustainability: Turnover rose by 6%, driven by increased passenger numbers
• Waste Management: reduced by 15% compared to 2023, with an emphasis on recycling paper, plastic, and electronic waste
• Gender Equality: Women represent 44% of the workforce, a 2% increase from 2023
• Energy Efficiency: 12% of our ground services equipment is powered by renewable electricity sources

The report aligns with Project Kifaru, the airline’s turnaround strategy, prioritising economic resilience, customer excellence and environmental responsibility, demonstrating KQ’s continued commitment to sustainable growth.

“Sustainability is not just a strategy,” noted Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka. “It is embedded in our vision, forming the foundation of everything we do. From addressing environmental impact, enhancing operational efficiency, to empowering communities.”

The national carrier is actively working towards operating sustainably through strategic investments in technology, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and environmental stewardship.

“With 64% of carbon emissions in aviation stemming from fuel consumption, we are investing in the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), integrating electric ground handling vehicles and adopting pyro diesel in our ground equipment,” Kilavuka added. Our vision is to become Africa’s preferred and most sustainable airline, one that is accountable to our planet and our people.”

PS State Department of Aviation and Aerospace Development Terresia Mbaika recognized the airlines innovative drive noting, “Kenya Airways has consistently demonstrated leadership across multiple fronts from launching Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production initiatives to launching pyro diesel plant, flying SAF as part of the sustainable aviation challenge setting a benchmark for African aviation.”

“These efforts position the airline on a path to achieving net-zero by 2050, in line with IATA targets, while also directly supporting our national commitment to achieve a 32% reduction in emissions by 2030, in line with our NDC targets. We are therefore committed to partnering with Kenya Airways in building a greener future and ensuring the airline remains at the forefront of this transition.”

Looking ahead, the airline is committed to increasing the representation in technical fields such as piloting and engineering, as well as in leadership positions, as well as broadening its approach to diversity and inclusion efforts to support disadvantaged communities and youth.

Kenya Airways remains dedicated to fostering long-term growth by integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations. Through strategic investments in technology, employee development, fleet optimisation, sustainable aviation fuel, and environmental stewardship, the airline remains committed to flying sustainably and contributing to a greener future.

Read Also: Fasten Your Seatbelts: Kenya Airways Is Flying, And So Are Our Mouths