Kenya Airways CEO George Kamal resigns, citing personal reasons
An image of Kenya Airways CEO George Kamal speaking during a past event.
Kenya Airways is set for another change in its top leadership after acting Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Captain George Kamal announced his resignation, citing personal reasons.
Kamal will leave the national carrier at the end of September after completing a 30-day transition period, with his formal exit taking effect on September 30, 2026.
His resignation comes at a critical time for the airline as it continues implementing measures aimed at stabilising its operations, improving financial performance and positioning the carrier for sustainable growth.
Kamal’s tenure
Kamal assumed the role of acting Group Managing Director and CEO on December 16, 2025, succeeding the previous leadership after serving as Kenya Airways’ Chief Operating Officer for three years.
During his time in the senior management team, Kamal played a role in efforts to stabilise the airline’s operations and advance its ongoing turnaround strategy.
The Kenya Airways board thanked Kamal for his contribution, leadership and commitment during his tenure and wished him success in his future plans.
His departure will now trigger another transition at the airline, with the board moving quickly to ensure continuity in leadership and operations.
Waswani named interim CEO
Kenya Airways has appointed Habil Waswani, the company’s Secretary and Director of Legal Services and Regulatory Compliance, as acting Group Managing Director and CEO.
Waswani will take up the position from September 15, 2026, as the airline prepares for a substantive appointment.
He has worked at Kenya Airways for more than five years, where he has handled aviation and airline-related legal matters alongside commercial and corporate law.
Waswani brings more than 24 years of experience in corporate and commercial legal practice. He has also previously served in senior positions within listed banking and insurance institutions.
He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Nairobi, a Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law and is a Certified Public Secretary.
He also holds a Global Executive Master of Business Administration degree from the United States International University, obtained through a collaboration with Columbia Business School at Columbia University.
Search for permanent CEO begins
Meanwhile, the Kenya Airways board has commenced the search for a substantive Group Managing Director and CEO through a competitive recruitment process.
The recruitment comes as the airline seeks to maintain momentum in its turnaround programme and strengthen its leadership as it works to improve its overall performance.
Kenya Airways said its priorities remain centred on implementing the turnaround strategy, improving operational reliability, returning to sustainable positive financial performance and achieving its targeted growth ambitions.
The airline’s leadership transition is therefore expected to take place against the backdrop of continued efforts to strengthen operations and secure the carrier’s long-term financial sustainability.
