The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) has emphasised the importance of social dialogue in empowering workers and driving economic growth at the 19th ILO Regional Seminar for Labour-based Practitioners. The seminar was organised from 15th to 19th May in Kigali, Rwanda, under the theme ‘Promoting Skills and Productive (Decent) Jobs for our Common Better Future’.
Speaking at the seminar, Senior Research Officer at OATUU, Mr. John Takpo noted that African workers have faced particularly unique challenges alongside the global crises that the world has experienced over the past few years. Apart from a general economic downturn and unpredictable recovery patterns, Africa’s characteristically youthful population brings with it urgent calls for employment creation and attention to gender inequalities. In addition, the changing nature of work adds another layer of complexity, as a more significant part of the African population is yet to catch up with the constantly changing forms of technology and access the attendant infrastructure.
Touching on possible solutions, Mr. Takpo stressed the significance of social dialogue in addressing some of these global issues. He stated, “Engaging in tripartite social dialogue, governments and representative workers’ and employers’ organizations help build strong labour market institutions that contribute to long-term social and economic stability and peace.” He added that inclusive social dialogue was lacking in many countries thereby undermining its efficacy.
Mr. Takpo further called for opportunities to improve social dialogue through capacity building, increased training, information sharing, and periodic engagement between relevant stakeholders. According to him, institutionalising social dialogue structures and tailoring them to a country-specific context is key in ensuring that viable solutions are unearthed.
In conclusion, he added that trade unions must play a role in advocating for the institutionalisation of social dialogue, conducting research, and building representatives’ capacity to better face current challenges.
