The Central Organisation of Trade Unions of Kenya (COTU) Secretary General Mr. Francis Atwoli has asked Trade Unionists from the Sub-Saharan Region to remain steadfast in their activism for workers’ rights and welfare.
Speaking during the Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Executive Committee Meeting of the IndustriALL Global Union (IGU) held at Pride Inn Paradise, Shanzu, Atwoli said that the solidarity and unity to advance the rights and well-being of the workers across the region is vital to help curb the challenges they are facing.
IGU represents more than 50 million working people in more than 140 countries working across the supply chains in mining, energy, and manufacturing sectors at the global level.
The Federation (IGU) strives to build stronger unions, create safe workplaces, build union power to confront global capital, improve democracy and inclusiveness, and promote social justice and globalisation among many others.
Atwoli pointed out some of the challenges the Sub-Saharan Region is facing including platform work, the digital economy, precarious employment, inadequate social protection, and the pressing cost of living crisis.
He, however, assured that the main agenda of the meeting was aimed at seeking solutions to the high cost of living.
“Our presence here underscores the enduring importance of organised labour in our Modern World, and as Union Leaders, we are entrusted with the solemn duty to advocate for the rights and welfare of the working people in our respective countries,” Atwoli said.
Atwoli acknowledged the Vice President of the IGU Ms. Rose Omamo who has remained fervent, fearless, and passionate about serving Kenyan Workers by growing through the ranks and file of the labour movement in the Country.
He emphasised the importance of these trade union leaders working together on an international platform to amplify their voices thereby empowering national centres.
The trade unionist also urged that in order to accomplish the goals set during the meeting, it is important to strengthen the bonds of solidarity, collaboration, and knowledge sharing over and above forging stronger partnerships, exchanging experiences, and strategising for the road ahead.
He pleaded with President William Ruto to organise a high-level meeting with his advisors and key ministries to explore potential solutions to the escalating cost of living crisis.
“We have asked them in writing that we need a serious meeting with the Head of State, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Labour, and COTU Executive Board to discuss this matter in depth and see whether we are moving in the right direction,” he said.
By Fatuma Said
