By Dumisani Ndlovu
In a significant shift in strategy, African labor unions are being called upon to expand their scope and address unfair labor practices and rights violations by all foreign investors, not just Chinese companies.
Industrial Sub-Saharan Africa regional secretary Paule Francis Ndessomin said this while addressing delegates attending a two-day Zimbabwe Diamond And Allied Minerals Union (ZDAMWU) national congress.
Ndessomin emphasized that the focus on Chinese investors alone is misplaced.
” We must hold all investors accountable, including those from Europe. Workers Unions in Africa should focus on all foreign investors on unfair labour practices and rights violations, including those from Europe, and not just the Chinese. We must not limit our attention to just one country,” Ndessomin said on Thursday.
Ndessomin’s remarks come as Chinese investors face accusations of violating workers’ rights, including beatings, torture, and low wages. However, she stressed that other foreign investors are equally guilty of violations. “The Europeans are worse,” she said. “We must report all violations to the UN and hold them accountable.”
The congress, attended by over 250 members from Zimbabwe and 60 delegates from other African countries, aimed to forge a unified voice among African mine workers and address common challenges. Abdul-Moomin Gbana, general secretary of the Ghana Mine Workers Union, echoed Ndessomin’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for African governments to ensure equal distribution of profits to local communities.
“The mining sector across Africa faces the same problems,” Gbana said. “We must put policies and legislation in place to ensure that investors share profits with local communities. We cannot continue to eat crumbs while others feast on our resources.”
The congress highlighted the need for collective action and a unified voice to address the exploitation of African resources and workers. By broadening their focus, labor unions can work towards a more equitable future for all.
