Kenya Airways has appointed Habil Waswani as its Acting Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter in the leadership of the national carrier as it continues to strengthen its operations and advance its transformation agenda.
Waswani, who currently serves as the airline’s Company Secretary and Director of Legal Services and Regulatory Compliance, will assume the role on 15 September 2026, succeeding Captain George Kamal.
Kamal has served in Kenya Airways’ executive leadership for more than four years, initially as Chief Operating Officer, before taking on the role of Acting Group Managing Director and CEO in December 2025.
During his tenure, Kamal brought extensive aviation expertise to the airline and played an important role in strengthening operational stability. He also guided the carrier through an executive transition while supporting the implementation of its turnaround strategy.
The Kenya Airways Board has expressed its appreciation for Kamal’s commitment, leadership, and dedication to the airline, recognizing the contributions he has made during his time with the carrier. He will remain with Kenya Airways through a transition period, supporting continuity as Waswani assumes the acting role.
Waswani brings more than two decades of experience in corporate and commercial law, governance and regulatory affairs. Since joining Kenya Airways, he has been closely involved in the airline’s legal, regulatory and corporate affairs, giving him a strong understanding of the organization and the aviation environment in which it operates.
His appointment provides continuity at a significant point in Kenya Airways’ journey as the airline continues to focus on operational reliability, customer experience, network and fleet optimization, sustainability and a return to sustainable financial performance.
Kenya Airways remains a key connector between Africa and the world, linking Kenya to major destinations across the continent, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Through its extensive network, the airline continues to play an important role in supporting trade, tourism and business connectivity while strengthening Nairobi’s position as a regional aviation hub.
The Board has commenced a competitive process to recruit a substantive Group Managing Director and CEO, while reaffirming its commitment to the airline’s long-term transformation and growth ambitions.
As Waswani prepares to take the helm in an acting capacity, Kenya Airways enters its next phase with a clear focus on building on the progress made, maintaining operational momentum and continuing to deliver on its role as The Pride of Africa.
