The 5th BWI Africa and Middle East Regional Conference, held in Nairobi, Kenya on 4–5 September 2025, brought together 33 affiliates and partner organisations from 27 countries under the theme “Building Strong Unions for a Sustainable Future: Uniting for Climate Justice.” With 41 percent women and 38 percent youth in attendance, the conference reaffirmed solidarity, set bold priorities, and elected new leadership. As host, Teresa Njeri welcomed the delegates, stressing the need to “walk the talk” on inclusion, transparency, and responsiveness to membership. International partners, including UNI Africa, 3F, FNV, and ITUC-Africa expressed strong support, underscoring the critical role of unions in advancing social justice amid shrinking civic space, precarious work, and climate risks.

Central to the discussions was the adoption of a new Regional Action Plan addressing climate justice (with a focus on the Too Hot to Work campaign), skills development, and union capacity-building. A total of 11 resolutions were passed, including one in solidarity with Palestine following a spirited debate led by FGBB (Tunisia). BWI General Secretary Ambet Yuson said: “As a workers' movement, we are builders of a better world; we must be ready to help rebuild lives and societies.” Affiliates also marked BWI’s 20th anniversary by honouring the contributions of Crecentia Mofokeng and renewing their commitment to a stronger, more resilient future for all members.

One of the conference’s highlights was Kenyan Labour Minister Dr Alfred pledged government support for decent work, labour rights, and social protection. The event culminated in the election of a new regional leadership, ushering in a new generation of leaders across the Regional, Women’s, and Youth Committees. Stephen Okoro (Nigeria) was elected BWI Vice President for the region, alongside Phillip Vilakazi (South Africa) and Julius Maina (Kenya) as Vice Chairpersons. Georgina Smedley (Ghana) now leads the Regional Women’s Committee, while Shayn Sinnassamy (Mauritius) chairs the Regional Youth Committee. Kenya’s Labour Minister, Dr. Alfred, pledged government support for labour rights, health and safety, and stronger union partnerships, while BWI’s global leadership expressed confidence in the new team to translate the conference’s resolutions into concrete gains for workers.