In a statement published this day the GS of ITUC-Africa emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the welfare of African workers and safeguarding their rights during the implementation of the AfCFTA.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a historic milestone in our economic integration, prosperity, and self-determination journey. It offers immense potential for job creation, industrialisation, and sustainable development while fostering intra-African trade and reducing our dependence on external markets…However, we must acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, notably the nexus between trade and decent work and the free movement of persons. It is crucial that the AfCFTA implementation process prioritises the welfare of African workers and safeguards their rights. As a trade union organisation, we call for a people-centred approach that ensures fair and just working conditions, social protection, and respect for labour rights in all aspects of the AfCFTA.” said comrade Kwasi-Adu-Amankwah
In the context of the AfCFTA, the free movement of people is a fundamental component of its success. Recognizing this, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) asserts that the free movement of people fosters the development of regional value chains, encourages investment, and facilitates the transfer of knowledge and skills across borders. It enables workers to find employment opportunities in different countries, leading to improved labor mobility and efficiency.
Furthermore, the African Union Commission acknowledges the linkage between the free movement of people and economic integration. It recognizes that enabling the movement of workers within the African continent promotes economic diversification, enhances productivity, and creates opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation. This realization led to the adoption of the Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment. ITUC-Africa urges other African governments, aside from the four countries that have ratified the Protocol, to take urgent steps to ratify, domesticate, apply, and enforce it.
ITUC-Africa has also called on African governments, regional economic communities, and all stakeholders to adopt measures that promote decent work, inclusive development, and sustainable industrialization.
The statement also reaffirms ITUC-Africa commitment to the enduring principles of unity, solidarity, and social justice. “We urge African governments, regional economic communities, and all stakeholders to adopt measures that promote decent work, inclusive development, and sustainable industrialization. This requires investments in skills development, technology transfer, infrastructure, and the establishment of robust social protection systems that leave no one behind…On this Africa Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the enduring principles of unity, solidarity and social justice. As we are all encouraged to work together towards the accomplishment of the Africa we want, ITUC-Africa will continue to advocate for the rights and welfare of African workers, ensuring that their voices are heard and their contributions recognized in shaping the future of our continent.” Added the General Secretary in the statement
We recall that this year commemoration also marks the 60th anniversary of the formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now African Union (AU).