The African Union’s Economic, Social, and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) paid a visit to the Secretariat of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) on 30th April, 2025, concluding a three-day training programme in Accra, Ghana. The visit which happened marked a significant moment of solidarity and mutual commitment to advancing inclusive peace building efforts across the continent.
Welcomed by the OATUU Secretary-General, Mr. Arezki Mezhoud, the ECOSOCC delegation was received with a spirit of partnership and shared vision. The visit formed part of the broader ECOSOCC training session, which was designed to empower Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) with tools for advocacy and strategic engagement in the African Union’s Conflict Management Cycle.
During the visit, Mr. Emmanuel Nzunda, Assistant Secretary General of OATUU, delivered a compelling address that underscored the urgent need for inclusive conflict prevention and resolution mechanisms. “Inclusive peace-building is not optional; it is essential for achieving the goals of the AU’s Agenda 2063. Trade unions and CSOs must be recognised as pivotal players in policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation,” he stated.
Taking the floor, Head of the ECOSOCC Secretariat, Mr. William Carew reinforced the importance of collective action in addressing Africa’s peace and security challenges. He further emphasised the vital role of communities and grassroots actors in peace-building,
Adding his voice to the dialogue, Chair of ECOSOCC’s Peace and Security Cluster, Mr. Boniface Cheembe highlighted the evolving nature of Africa’s security threats, including asymmetric warfare and violent extremism. “As civil society, we must strengthen our expertise to engage effectively within existing continental frameworks,” he said.
The visit to the OATUU headquarters served as a powerful reminder of the indispensable role of labor movements and civil society in shaping Africa’s peace and security landscape. It affirmed the shared mission of both OATUU and ECOSOCC to build a continent where inclusive governance, social justice, and sustainable peace are not just ideals—but realities.
