Qatar Airways says it “has no interest in Kenya Airways” (KQ) after African Business reported on February 18 that the airline was exploring a potential deal to buy an equity stake in the Kenyan carrier.
In a statement to African Business provided by its communications representative in Africa, Qatar Airways said that “in response to recent speculation in the media, Qatar Airways would like to confirm that it remains focused on delivering value through its strong existing international partnerships and has no interest in Kenya Airways.”
Cooperation between the two airlines has been growing in recent months. In October last year, they begun “codesharing” on flights to 19 destinations which allowed KQ customers to access 11 destinations via Qatar Airways’ hub in Doha.
Qatar Airways has also been ramping flights to Nairobi, recently launching a third daily flight to the Kenyan capital.
The airline has invested heavily in the African market, which it has made a strategic priority. In August 2024, the Qatari airline acquired a 25% minority stake in South African carrier Airlink, while in December 2019 it also agreed to purchase a 60% stake in the under-construction Bugesera International Airport in Rwanda.
Qatar has explored partnerships in East Africa, having been engaged in talks with RwandAir for several years over acquiring a potential 49% share in the country’s national airline. A deal has not been concluded.