The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), in collaboration with the Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (CIDO) of the African Union Commission (AUC), held the 12th Annual Partnership Forum from 15–16 July 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme “The Role of Trade Unions on Sustainable Water and Sanitation in Africa.”
The forum aligned with the African Union’s 2026 Theme of the Year, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” which recognises water and sanitation as critical enablers of inclusive growth, public health, environmental sustainability, regional integration, human dignity and peace.
The meeting brought together trade union leaders, government representatives, civil society organisations and development partners, including AU-CIDO Director Ambassador Amr Aljowaily, OATUU Secretary-General Mr. Arezki Mezhoud, and Ms. Ann Kanake, Acting Registrar of Trade Unions at Kenya’s Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.
In his remarks, Amb. Aljowaily urged trade unions to use existing platforms to champion water and sanitation issues, strengthen citizen engagement and designate focal persons within their organisations to coordinate related initiatives.
Mr. Mezhoud emphasised that access to safe water and sanitation is a fundamental issue affecting millions of Africans, particularly women and youth. He called on trade unions to strengthen collaboration with governments and development partners while advocating for resilient public water and sanitation infrastructure.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Kenya, Ms. Kanake underscored the importance of the forum, noting that the successful implementation of Agenda 2063 will require the active contribution and unified voice of trade unions.
The forum concluded with recommendations for trade unions to leverage their existing structures to advance water and sanitation advocacy, while prioritising research and capacity building to better equip members to address water and sanitation challenges.
