In preparation to advance its contribution for Africa’s transformation agenda, the African regional organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa ), has set plans on top gear to build the capacity of trade unions in the continent.
The capacity building is part of the ITUC-Africa annual New Year School. Speaking on the importance of the engagement of trade unions in Africa’s transformation agenda, ITUC-Africa General Secretary, Akhator Joel Odigie, said; “At the heart of this transformation journey are trade unions, positioned as pivotal drivers of tangible collective action that can propel Africa’s transformational agenda. The multifaceted role of trade unions across key focal areas assumes paramount importance in shaping and navigating Africa’s future landscape,” a statement
The Trade Union Leadership School dubbed the New Year School (NYS) aims at discussing and reflecting on contemporary social, economic and political matters affecting Africa and has covered a number of thematic areas including African emancipation, regional integration, sustainable development, trade union renewal and unity, among others.
The School which is in its 11th edition is scheduled to hold this March, and will focus on enhancing the capacity of trade unions representatives in the areas of sovereign debt crisis, social protection financing, organizing trade union unity, AfCFTA for driving the African value chains for industrialization and advancing African Trade
According to the statement by the ITUC-Africa general secretary, the school will reflect without lamenting the current social and economic state in Africa as well as the one of governance and democracy on the continent. It will also formulate a continental labour strategy to set the background of a new social contract for Africa.
Amidst the threat posed by the changing world of work, the school will also allow the trade unions to look into what innovative strategies can be implemented to rejuvenate trade unions, ensuring they remain relevant, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of workers.
Our correspondent reports that one of the major hurdles in establishing and sustaining comprehensive social protection systems in Africa is the challenge posed by illicit financial flows and the subsequent burgeoning debt.
According to the African Development Bank, Africa loses an estimated $50 billion annually due to illicit financial flows, hampering the region’s economic progress. This loss is equivalent to 3.7% of the continent’s GDP
ITUC-Africa said as part of the training school, it hopes to take a look into what are the root causes of illicit financial flows in Africa, and how can trade unions advocate for policies that promote fiscal transparency and accountability.
How can trade unions leverage their influence to address the mounting sovereign debt crisis and protect social protection financing for vulnerable populations; What role can trade unions play in mobilizing resources and fostering collaborations to ensure sustainable financing for comprehensive social protection measures.
Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) stands as a catalyst for transformation in regional economic integration and industrialization throughout the continent. Projections anticipate AfCFTA potentially lifting 30 million Africans out of extreme poverty and 68 million from moderate poverty by 2035.
Participants at the school will therefore explore strategies to maximize the potential of AfCFTA.
“They will learn to advocate for policies that support the African value chain, empower local industries, and promote job creation within the framework of AfCFTA,” the statement noted.
It stated further that “trade unions, leveraging their influence, can advocate beyond supporting the African value chain and local industries. They can champion various pivotal areas such as advocating for skills development programs aligned with AfCFTA’s demands to bolster the workforce’s capabilities and mobility.
“Empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through easier access to finance and market linkages, particularly within the AfCFTA framework, aligns with union objectives, gender inclusivity, promoting women’s economic empowerment, and encouraging eco-friendly practices are equally vital pursuits. Additionally, prioritizing consumer protection, high-quality standards, and fostering technological integration and innovation are arenas where trade unions can foster positive impacts within the AfCFTA.”
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