Presidents and General Secretaries of Federations and affiliates,
Office bearers and members of ITUC-Africa,
On behalf of government and the people of South Africa, I would like to extend a warm welcome to delegates to the second congress of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC)-Africa region.
I regret not being able to welcome you in person, due to pressing commitments. I do however trust that you have been received warmly.
Your theme: Renewing African trade union movement towards African emancipation is a very appropriate one at this point in the continent’s history. The trade union movement has contributed greatly to the political emancipation of African countries.
In South Africa, trade unions were at the forefront alongside the African National Congress, in bringing an end to the crime against humanity, apartheid as well as colonial oppression.
Many leaders who championed the cause of African emancipation and freedom came from the ranks of the trade union movement. It is correct therefore, that the labour movement should play a key role in shaping Africa’s economic emancipation as well.
In the socio-economic sphere, the continent still faces major challenges. We have to deal decisively with poverty, inequality and unemployment.
In this regard, we urge the labour movement in Africa to contribute more to the social and economic development of Africa, assisting the national governments.
Comrades and friends
This congress also comes at an important moment for Africa and its working people. We are approaching the end of what has been a turbulent year economically.
Europe and the United States are bracing themselves for slow growth which is bound to affect Africa. Thus far, Africa has proven to be resilient. She has bounced back from the financial and economic crisis and growth is improving across the continent.
We therefore end the year with cautious optimism.
We have another reason to be optimistic as we end the year.
In the coming days, the 17th Conference of the Parties / 7th Meeting of Parties (COP17/CMP7) United Nations Climate Change conference will begin in Durban.
COP 17 serves as a reminder that our social and economic futures will be increasingly tied to the future of our environment.
The trade union movement has a critical role to sensitise governments to the needs of the environment. We are preparing for a successful session in Durban and look forward to working with you to make COP 17 and CMP7 a success.
Once again, welcome to South Africa.
I wish you well in your deliberations.
I thank you.
