A reflection on International Workers’ Day across Africa
African politicians speak out on May Day: Yesterday, as the world commemorated International Workers’ Day, or Labour Day as it is known in many countries, the African continent joined in the celebration. However, amidst the festivities, there lingered a mix of emotions, particularly among those in both formal and informal employment sectors.
Across the majority of African nations, the specter of unemployment, particularly among the youth, continues to loom large. This dire situation has catalyzed the illegal migration of African youths to Europe in search of better opportunities.
In Zimbabwe, former Member of Parliament and politician, Hon Ostallos Siziba, penned a poignant letter titled ‘In Solidarity With The Working People of Zimbabwe‘. In it, he highlighted the sacrifices and struggles of Zimbabwe’s hardworking citizens, who grapple daily with political and socio-economic challenges.
Hon Siziba emphasized the myriad challenges faced by workers, including economic instability, inflation, inadequate wages, and precarious working conditions. Meanwhile, in South Africa, at the main Workers’ Day celebrations, COSATU President Zingiswa Losi urged workers to throw their support behind the ANC in the upcoming elections, asserting that the party stands with workers in times of adversity.
Addressing the gathering, South Africa’s President, H.E Cyril Ramaphosa, acknowledged the ongoing repercussions of apartheid and stressed the need to ensure a decent quality of life for all workers. However, the ruling ANC has faced criticism from opposition parties and unions for allegedly neglecting workers’ rights.
In Nigeria, a beacon of hope emerged for civil servants, as President Bola Tinubu’s government pledged a significant increase in salaries to alleviate the burden of rising living costs. Similarly, in Uganda, President Museveni championed local manufacturing, urging citizens to support domestic industries and eschew imported goods.
President Museveni’s call for self-reliance extended to job seekers, whom he encouraged to explore opportunities within Uganda rather than seeking employment abroad. He emphasized the importance of agriculture in driving economic growth and urged all households to participate in the money economy through agricultural ventures.
As Africa reflects on International Workers’ Day, the continent grapples with both the challenges and opportunities facing its labor force. From Zimbabwe to Nigeria, and Uganda to South Africa, the call for solidarity, economic empowerment, and self-reliance resonates as nations strive to build brighter futures for their workers and citizens alike.
