The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity - OATUU

06/08/2026

OATUU and ILO Strengthen Call for Effective Social Dialogue and Tripartism in Africa
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OATUU in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has concluded a two-day conference in Accra, Ghana, on strengthening social dialogue and tripartism for the realisation of Africa’s future of work and the aspirations of AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

The conference brought together trade union leaders from across Africa, representatives of governments, employers’ organisations, the African Union and the ILO to discuss how workers can play a stronger role in shaping labour policies and Africa’s development pathway.

Speakers highlighted the importance of trust, partnership and inclusive engagement among governments, employers and workers.

Ghana TUC Secretary-General, Comrade Joshua Ansah described social dialogue as “democracy expressed in the world of work,” while OATUU Secretary-General, Comrade Arezki Mezhoud reaffirmed its importance in achieving inclusive labour governance.

ILO Deputy Regional Director for Africa, Agossou Coffi, called for stronger collective bargaining and increased organising of workers in the informal economy.

AU representative, Dr. Sabelo Mbokazi emphasised tripartism as a pillar of people-centred development, while Business Africa representative Alex Frimpong highlighted social dialogue as a tool for building competitive economies.

OATUU President, Dr. Francis Atwoli called on African trade unions to strengthen advocacy for social justice and deeper worker participation in AU processes while Director for Labour and Employment (Ministry of Labour, Jobs & Employment-Ghana), Mr. Nhyira Sarfo Adu-Amankwah, stressed the need for stronger tripartite institutions capable of responding to emerging challenges, including technological change, new skills demands and the changing world of work.

Participants recommended stronger social dialogue mechanisms, greater worker participation in AU processes, improved coordination among social partners, increased capacity building, stronger inclusion of women and young workers, expanded organising in the informal and digital economy, and strategic responses to automation, artificial intelligence and climate transition.

The conference reaffirmed that effective social dialogue and tripartism remain essential to advancing decent work, social justice and sustainable development across Africa.

22/07/2026

OATUU Receives Chinese Embassy Delegation to Strengthen Cooperation
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The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) received a delegation from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China on a courtesy visit to its Secretariat. The delegation was led by Counsellor Jin Wei and was warmly received by the OATUU Secretary-General, Arezki Mezhoud.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to exchange views on areas of mutual interest and explore prospects for strengthening collaboration in the future. Discussions focused on shared priorities and opportunities for continued partnership in support of workers' development and broader socio-economic progress across Africa.

OATUU expressed its appreciation to the Chinese Embassy for the visit and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining dialogue and fostering partnerships that advance the interests of African workers and trade union movements.

22/07/2026

OATUU Leadership Received by President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. William Ruto
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President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency, Dr. William Ruto warmly welcomed the leadership of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) at State House, Nairobi. The delegation was led by OATUU President and leader of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU–Kenya), Dr. Francis Atwoli and Secretary-General, Mr. Arezki Mezhoud.

Dr. Francis Atwoli expressed his gratitude to His Excellency for granting this audience. He presented the mission and role of OATUU in advancing the Pan-African Labour movement, strengthening solidarity among workers, and defending social justice across the continent.

Mr. Arezki Mezhoud also extended his gratitude to President Ruto for the support of the Government of Kenya. He highlighted the historic role of the Kenyan Labour movement in the establishment of OATUU, recalling with respect that the first Secretary-General of OATUU was a distinguished Kenyan, the late Denis Akumu. He emphasised that Kenya continues to play a leading role in the Pan-African Labour movement through the current presidency of Dr. Francis Atwoli and the strong contribution of COTU–Kenya.

This meeting reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to the values of solidarity, unity, and justice for workers across Africa. The warm reception by His Excellency, President Dr. William Ruto stands as a testament to Kenya’s enduring support for the Pan-African Labour movement and its pivotal role in the history and future of OATUU.

President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency, Dr. William Ruto warmly welcomed the leadership of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) at State House, Nairobi. The delegation …

18/07/2026

OATUU and AU-CIDO Hold 12th Annual Partnership Forum on Sustainable Water and Sanitation
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OATUU, in partnership with the African Union Commission's Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (AU-CIDO), successfully held the 12th Annual Partnership Forum in Nairobi, Kenya, from 15–16 July 2026 under the theme: "The Role of Trade Unions on Sustainable Water and Sanitation in Africa."

Held in line with the African Union's 2026 Theme of the Year, the forum highlighted the vital role trade unions play in promoting sustainable water availability and safe sanitation systems as key drivers of public health, decent work, environmental sustainability and the achievement of Agenda 2063.

The forum brought together trade union leaders, government representatives, civil society organisations and development partners to strengthen collaboration and identify practical ways to advance water and sanitation across the continent.

Participants reaffirmed the need for stronger advocacy, research, capacity building and coordinated action to ensure that workers' organisations contribute meaningfully to sustainable water and sanitation for all Africans.

Together, we continue to build partnerships that advance workers' rights and Africa's development.

16/06/2026

OATUU Welcomes Landmark Adoption of Convention on Decent Work in the Platform Economy at 114th ILC
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The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) has welcomed the adoption of the Convention on Decent Work in the Platform Economy at the 114th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), held in Geneva from 1 to 12 June.

This milestone represents a major step forward in establishing global protections for workers in the rapidly expanding digital platform economy. The convention introduces international standards aimed at strengthening labour rights, preventing exploitation, and improving working conditions in this evolving sector.

OATUU notes that it had previously called on the ILC to adopt a binding international instrument addressing the specific challenges faced by platform workers. The organisation also engaged its affiliates and partners in support of this initiative throughout the process.

OATUU expresses its appreciation to all stakeholders who contributed to this outcome and reaffirms its commitment to supporting the implementation of the convention at a national level and to working with relevant partners to ensure that its provisions translate into tangible improvements in the lives and working conditions of platform workers across Africa and beyond.

Find the statement below.

The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) has welcomed the adoption of the Convention on Decent Work in the Platform Economy at the 114th session of the International Labour Conference …

16/06/2026

Clarification Concerning Trade Union Affiliation Mentioned in Report of 11 June 2026 – Case of Somalia
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After reviewing the Credential Committee Report of the International Labour Conference in its 114th Session, we noted in the case concerning Somalia (page 26, paragraph 95 of the English edition) that the Somali government informed the Committee that the “Federation of Somali Trade Union – FESTU” is a member of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU).

We wish to inform our members and the public that this information is incorrect. The organisation affiliated with us from Somalia is the Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SOCOTU), which is the only body officially recognised as an affiliate of our Organisation. The “Federation of Somali Trade Union” is not affiliated with us.

We emphasise the importance of accuracy in reporting matters related to trade union membership, as any incorrect information may cause confusion and undermine the credibility of our collective work. We therefore urge all parties to consult our official communications before making statements regarding membership.

The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity remains committed to transparency and to defending the interests of African workers and trade unions, while ensuring that any inaccuracies in reports or official statements are promptly corrected.

10/06/2026

OATUU brought together 150 worker delegates from across Africa at the International Labour Office in Geneva on 9th June, 2026 to evaluate the outcomes of the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC).

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of African trade unions to a strong and united voice on global labour issues, including the call for an international convention on platform workers and the strengthening of social dialogue as a foundation for social justice and sustainable development.

Delegates also expressed solidarity with the workers and people of Palestine, Sudan, the Sahel countries, and Western Sahara, while renewing their commitment to the economic and social emancipation of African workers and the unity of the African trade union movement.

08/06/2026

OATUU Strengthens Coordination Among African Workers’ Delegates at 114th Session of ILC 2026
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As part of the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC), taking place from 1st to 12th June 2026 at the headquarters of the International Labour Office (ILO) in Geneva, the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) is holding its annual coordination meeting with the African Workers’ Delegates participating in the Conference.

This meeting represents a strategic gathering for the African trade union movement. It provides a platform for delegates to exchange information, consult on key issues, assess the progress of discussions within the various technical committees of the Conference, and harmonise their positions on the main items on the agenda.

Participants are reviewing the work of the six committees currently in session, which are addressing major issues shaping the future of work, including the impact of artificial intelligence on employment and workers’ rights, gender and social dialogue, the strengthening of collective bargaining, as well as other important matters related to the promotion of decent work and social justice.

01/06/2026

OATUU Participates in the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva
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The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), led by its Secretary General, Mr. Arezki Mezhoud, is participating in the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) at the headquarters of the International Labour Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.

The Conference brings together representatives of governments, employers and workers from across ILO Member States to discuss some of the most pressing issues shaping the future of work, including the impact of artificial intelligence, the protection of platform workers, social justice, and decent work for all.

Through its participation, OATUU continues to champion the rights, interests and aspirations of African workers, ensuring that the voice of the African trade union movement is represented in global discussions on labour, social dialogue and sustainable development.

The OATUU delegation will engage actively in the Conference proceedings and participate in a series of trade union consultations and meetings taking place alongside this important international gathering.

11/04/2026

OATUU attends 50th Anniversary of Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic
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The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) participated in the celebrations marking the 50th Anniversary of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. The organisation was represented by the Deputy Chair of the African Working Women’s Committee, Ms. Malika Boutaoui, at events held in the refugee camps—an atmosphere that powerfully reflected the resilience and enduring struggle of the Sahrawi people.

In her address, Sister Boutaoui conveyed warm greetings and congratulations to the Sahrawi people and their leadership on this historic milestone. She delivered a strong message of solidarity on behalf of OATUU, reaffirming the organisation’s continued support for the workers and people of Western Sahara in their just cause.

She also highlighted the pivotal role of Sahrawi women in the resistance, praising their resilience and sacrifices as central to the national struggle for freedom and dignity.
Sister Boutaoui reiterated that the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination is inalienable, as affirmed by the United Nations and the African Union, underscoring OATUU’s unwavering commitment to justice, freedom, and international solidarity.

The Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) has taken part in the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. OATUU was represented …