By Alvin Lansana Kargbo
The 24th meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials responsible for labour, employment and manpower issues in Africa commenced on Tuesday October 8, 2024 at the Atlantic Lumley Hotel in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The high-profile event, which will conclude on the 11th of October, 2024, was attended by senior officials from various African countries, marking a significant moment for labour administration on the continent.
The meeting, organized by the Africa Regional Labour Administration Centre (ARLAC), provided a platform for high-level discussions on advancing labour administration practices and addressing the evolving challenges faced by the continent.
In her keynote address, Hon. Rebecca Yei Sam, Chairperson of the Committee on Employment, Labour and Social Security of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, extended greetings from the Speaker, Leaders and Committee members. Representing the absent Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Hon. Mohamed Rahman Swarray, she expressed the Minister’s regret at being unable to attend, highlighting the groundwork laid by the Ministry and its staff to ensure the success of the conference.
Hon. Rebecca Yei Sam lauded the importance of the meeting, which brought together experts from across the continent to share experiences, strengthen labour practices and collaborate on policies. She emphasized that Africa’s labour force is critical to economic growth, social development and sustainability, urging participants to work towards advancing labour administration practices and addressing modern challenges such as remote work, occupational safety and social protection.
Reflecting on ARLAC’s journey, Hon. Rebecca Yei Sam reminded attendees of its establishment in 1974 by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). She stated that over the past 49 years, ARLAC has significantly contributed to building capacity in labour administration across Africa, transforming into a centre of excellence. She encouraged participants to continue building on ARLAC’s legacy, promoting inclusivity, equality and social justice in labour policies.
ARLAC Executive Director, Retselisitsoe Khetsi, echoed these sentiments, presenting an overview of ARLAC’s activities and strategic goals for 2024-2029. He stressed the importance of partnerships, revealing ongoing collaborations with the African Union (AU) and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) such as ECOWAS and SADC. The Executive Director also announced upcoming initiatives, including a training program for labour inspectors focusing on migration issues and plans to enhance ARLAC’s visibility and financial sustainability.
As the chairmanship of the Committee was handed over to Sierra Leone Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Joseph T. Kanu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead. He praised the efforts of the previous Chair, Lesotho, and underscored the importance of African unity in addressing the continent’s labour challenges. The incoming Chairperson reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to ARLAC’s mission and to fostering collaboration among member states.
The meeting was also addressed by Philile Masuku, ILO Representative and Country Director for Zimbabwe and Namibia, who acknowledged ARLAC’s contributions over the years. She highlighted the need to strengthen labour market systems in the face of global challenges, including the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, political tensions, inflation and economic disparities. Philile Masuku emphasized the ILO’s commitment to social justice and sustainable development, calling for collaborative efforts to create decent jobs and address inequalities.
As the event progresses, delegates are expected to engage in further discussions aimed at enhancing labour practices and addressing pressing employment issues across Africa
