OATUU, in partnership with the Citizens and Diaspora Organisations (CIDO) of the African Union (AU), has organised the 11th Annual Forum on the ‘Role of Trade Unions in the Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)’ from August 17th to 18th, 2023, in Lilongwe, Malawi.

The objective of this workshop is to raise awareness among trade unions regarding the impact of the AfCFTA agreement on African economies and to define the role of trade unions in its implementation across the continent. Additionally, this event will facilitate dialogue between the AFCFTA Secretariat and OATUU.

The agenda for this Forum includes a presentation on the African Free Trade Area agreement and the role of trade unions in its implementation. This presentation will be delivered by Mr. Peter Joy, the Senior Advisor to the Secretary-General of the AFCFTA.

This Forum marks the resumption of activities after a 3-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Representative of the Interim Director, Madam Hazel M.D Dixon, expressed optimism about substantial progress in the future, following the resumption of cooperation activities.

The Secretary-General of OATUU, Mr. Arezki Mezhoud, also conveyed his contentment with the revival of the annual partnership forum with CIDO. He emphasised its significance as a vital platform for exchange and collaboration between OATUU and CIDO. Regarding the chosen theme of the forum, he underscored his interest in its implications for workers, highlighting the eventual impact of the agreement on the economy and the labor landscape.

Following two days of deliberations and discussions, the participants formulated a roadmap that will serve as a comprehensive work plan for forthcoming endeavors.