The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) held its 47th General Council Meeting on 4th November 2026 in Accra, Ghana, bringing together trade union leaders and representatives from across Africa in a hybrid format.

As OATUU’s annual statutory gathering, the General Council provided an opportunity to evaluate the activities and performance of the Executive Committee, review progress in implementing the organisation’s mandate and deliberate on developments affecting the African labour movement.

In his remarks, OATUU President, Dr. Francis Atwoli, emphasised the importance of continuous learning and adapting to the changing world of work. He encouraged trade union leaders and workers to embrace emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), and called for greater youth participation in trade union activities and leadership to ensure the movement remains relevant to future generations.

Discussions highlighted the importance of trade union solidarity, collective action and sustained support for OATUU’s work and programmes. Delegates emphasised the need for affiliates to strengthen their commitment to the organisation, work together in addressing common challenges and promote a united and effective African trade union movement.

Other deliberations addressed workers’ rights, employment, social protection, economic development and the changing nature of work, with delegates sharing experiences and perspectives on strengthening workers’ representation across the continent.