East African unions double down on anti-asbestos campaign in workplaces

On 13 September 2024, BWI in collaboration with Solidar gathered 18 participants from eight of its affiliates based in East Africa for an asbestos-themed workshop. The workshop, hosted in Tanzania, increased workers’ knowledge on the dangers and negative health effects of asbestos and asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), assisted workers to identify asbestos and ACM hazards in workplaces, explored the regulatory frameworks and discussed the importance of pushing for compliance, and discussed the need for trade unions to intensify the fight for safe working environments. The workshop also revisited BWI’s 28 April International Workers Memorial Day theme ‘Enough is Enough! Let’s Talk Hazards’ and discussed how the affiliates can use the campaign to push for safe and healthy working environment. 

Despite the ban of asbestos in Tanzania and Kenya and a health crisis stemming from asbestos exposure, enforcement of the ban remains a challenge. Nevertheless, BWI affiliates in the above-mentioned countries have continued to participate in the review of OHS policies, regulations, and laws with a view of eliminating asbestos and ACMs in workplaces. The affiliates reflected on their achievements thus far and  made commitments to engage employers, government officials, communities, and other relevant stakeholders, educate them on asbestos and ACMs, and push for the total elimination of asbestos and ACMs in all workplaces and communities.

“The review of occupational health and safety laws is imperative. As new and evolving workplace health risks emerge, trade unions must remain vigilant to safeguard workers' well-being. If businesses wants to thrive, workers’ health must be at the forefront,” said REWU General Secretary Andre Mutsindashyaka.