Rwanda: Union holds congress, celebrates massive increase in membership
The BWI-affiliated STECOMA in Rwanda held its third Congress on 3 October 2024 with the theme “Moving Forward Together.” The Congress was attended by approximately 142 delegates, including at least 65 women. This follows the union's training of 98 participants (47 of whom were women) to strengthen its recruitment, retention, and organising strategies, while emphasising the unique roles that women and young people play in these efforts.
During the event, STECOMA reflected on its achievements, most notably its remarkable membership growth from just 200 members in 2008 to an impressive 78,743 members in 2024. In light of this success, the union reiterated its commitment to fostering and promoting just, equitable, and decent work for construction sector workers in Rwanda by advocating for the development, improvement, and enforcement of core labour standards. STECOMA outlined its strategy to achieve this vision by developing future leadership, enhancing workers' skills, addressing the challenges posed by climate change, and engaging construction workers and union members to ensure that their well-being and rights are championed.
A newly elected National Executive, composed of seven members (four of whom are women), has been tasked with leading the union from 2024 onwards. Notably, women were elected to the roles of Vice National Chairperson and Deputy General Secretary for Training & Member Development. The leadership potential of young people was also recognised with the election of youth representatives to key positions, including Deputy General Secretary for Mobilisation & Recruitment, Youth Leader, and Gender & Women Leader.
“This Congress gave us the opportunity to reflect and assess the work we have done since our inception. Our growth and impact in Rwanda’s construction sector are both impressive and undeniable. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our members and partners, including BWI, for their invaluable support in strengthening our union. Together, we are steadfastly working towards a membership of 200,000 by 2031, building a stronger, more vibrant organisation that champions the interests of our workers and our sector,” said General Secretary Evariste Habyarimana.