Southern Africa: BWI and SASK address emerging labour challenges in 2024

In a meeting on 25 January, the Building and Wood Workers' International (BWI) and the Trade Union Solidarity Centre of Finland (SASK) reaffirmed their commitment to advance progressive labour rights in Southern Africa. Key representatives from both organisations convened to discuss contextual updates and evaluate ongoing projects, stressing the need to adapt to changing political and economic dynamics.

The parties identified climate change, just transition, skills development, and sustainability as priority areas for the 2024 project cycle. With a focus on innovation and adaptation, they pledged to address emerging challenges in the labour market and strengthen their partnership beyond 2024. Representatives from SASK, including Janne Ronkainen, Executive Director, Simiao Simbine, Regional Representative for Africa, and Ville Hirsikangas, Head of Finance, collaborated closely with BWI's Regional Representative Crecentia Mofokeng, Assistant Regional Representative Garikanai Shoko, Regional Executive Officer Ndessomin Dosso, and Regional Gender and Southern Africa Project Coordinator Boitumelo Tsotetsi to chart a course for meaningful action.

Despite obstacles posed by conflicts and the climate crisis, participants emerged from the meeting with optimism for the future. Both BWI and SASK remain steadfast in their dedication to defending human and labour rights, urging for creative solutions to meet the evolving needs of workers in the region “The labour market is becoming increasingly non-traditional and challenging. As defenders of human and labour rights, we must continue develop innovative pathways to bring relief to our constituents. Let us think outside of the box and meet our mandate, Mofokeng said.