By Michael Oche
The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has declared a clarion call for a reawakening towards transformational change across the African continent.
This will form the basis for discussions at the 5th Ordinary Congress of the Regional Organisation themed, “AMKA AFRIKA!”, which is a Swahili phrase meaning “Arise Afrika!”.
Over 300 delegates, observers, and guests from Africa and other parts of the world are expected to converge on Nairobi, the Kenya capital, for the 5th Ordinary Congress which holds between November 28th to 30th, 2023.
Our Correspondent reports that Africa has often been described as a minerally, materially, and humanely endowed continent but failing to break free from the shackles of surmountable hardship and misery.
In a statement from its Lomé office by Kwasi Adu-Amankwah, the General Secretary ahead of the Congress, ITUC-Africa said there is a firm resolve by the African workers not to withdraw to lamentation and fatalism.
“It is on this basis that the “Amka Afrika!” clarion call is intended to reverberate across the continent towards a shared transformative change,” the statement noted.
The statement from the general secretary further explained that delegates to the Congress will deliberate on critical issues, share experiences, and forge pathways for a brighter future for the African trade union movement.
The statement reads further: “The Congress will explore innovative strategies to address the challenges facing African workers through panel discussions and plenary sessions.”
As a prelude to the Congress, several activities are planned, such as the conference of young people and women on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and numerous side events relating to the priorities of the world of work.
ITUC-Africa with 17 million declared members and 101 affiliated trade union centres in 51 African countries, has been leading the charge for improved workers’ rights in Africa. The body said it envisions a united, democratic, and independent regional organisation working tirelessly for the well-being of all African workers.
Other highlights at the 5th Congress include the composition of the General Council and the election of officers – Internal Auditors and the General Secretary.
