Unions rebuild better and stronger after COVID-19 pandemic

BWI’s Nigerian affiliates NUCECFWW and CCESSA, on 17 October 2024, successfully hosted the 18th BWI Africa and Middle East Regional Executive Committee (AFRECO) in Abuja, Nigeria. Under the theme “Building Stronger Unions through Revitalisation, Innovation, and Solidarity – In Building Construction, Wood, Forest & Allied Sectors,” this event marked the first face-to-face AFRECO meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing together 53 delegates, observers, guests, and staff, with 32.08 percent women and 7.5 percent youth representation from 21 affiliates across 16 countries. The meeting was chaired by Stephen Igho Okoro, Vice President of AFRECO and President of NUCECFWW.

During the meeting, reports were presented on the milestones achieved by the region since the last AFRECO gathering, alongside contributions from the Regional Youth and Women’s Committees. Discussions included regional growth and sustainability, key BWI campaigns, the region’s financial standing, and recommendations for improvement. Ambet Yuson, General Secretary of BWI, highlighted the challenges facing the region, urging solidarity with workers experiencing labour rights violations in Lebanon, Palestine, Myanmar, Hong Kong, and Australia.

Yuson emphasised the necessity of rebuilding and strengthening trade unions through innovative unionism to engage a new generation of workers. He advocated for digital organising, climate justice, and flexible models of union engagement. AFRECO echoed his sentiments, recognising the challenges posed by political conflicts, the climate crisis, and reduced development cooperation while committing to uphold workers' rights and prioritise sustainable practices.

The meeting concluded with Michael Adumatta bidding farewell as he announced his retirement from the union. Justina Jonas, General Secretary of MANWU and World Board Member, officially closed the session, thanking the hosting unions and delegates for their contributions and encouraging solidarity among the regions. The next AFRECO meeting is scheduled to take place from 1 to 5 September 2025 in Rwanda.