BWI participated in the Biennial Conference of Women Trade Unionists organised by ITUC-Africa, held from 6-8 August 2024 in Cotonou, Benin. The conference, themed “Understanding, Deepening, and Using Feminism to Achieve the Decent Work and Social Justice Agenda in Africa,” brought together over 170 trade unionists, predominantly women, from across the continent. The theme was explored through various panel discussions that focused on harnessing feminism as a tool to advance the decent work agenda, shaping a new social contract for social justice, engaging men in female empowerment, and more. This successful event provided a platform for in-depth discussions, experience sharing, and regional networking.
The highlight of the conference was the closing march to the Esplanade des Amazones, where participants demonstrated their solidarity and commitment to women's rights and gender equality. At the end of the march, the Cotonou Declaration was shared with participants, relevant authorities, and diplomatic missions. The Declaration's key demands included social protection, relief from austerity measures, equal pay for work of equal value, and the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work and communities.
BWI, in partnership with ITUC-Africa, remains steadfast in its support for women workers and will continue to advocate for policies and practices that promote feminism, gender equality, and decent work in Africa and beyond.
