Young trade unionists from across Africa convened in Maputo for the 6th UNI Africa Youth Conference, advocating for increased leadership roles and representation. Joel Lueteta, outgoing UNI Africa Youth President from GS union in the Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasized the importance of youth leadership, stating, “Let this conference be a turning point, where ideas become action, and where young people step confidently into leadership.”
The conference centered on the theme ‘Consolidating Young Workers’ Power’ and saw participants adopt an action plan while electing new leaders for a four-year term. Despite being the youngest continent globally, with over 70% of its population under 30, African youth face challenges such as unemployment and exclusion from decision-making processes.
Marta Ochoa, UNI Global Union’s Youth Director, highlighted the principles guiding UNI Youth’s work: voice, representation, and advocacy. These principles have led to the establishment of youth networks and mentoring programs across Africa. Keith Jacobs, UNI Africa Regional Secretary, urged young leaders to understand and confront challenges facing African workers.
Youth mentoring was underscored as crucial for skill-building. Sara Amghar from UMT Morocco shared her experience with the UNI MENA Mentoring Program: “I have learned to be a good negotiator…it has helped me to be more confident.”
Gender-specific issues were also addressed by young women leaders focusing on sexual harassment prevention and workplace equality. One speaker emphasized training men and women as activists sensitive to women’s issues.
Michael Adu (HSWU, Ghana) raised concerns about youth representation: “Why is the youngest continent being led by the eldest of leaders?… We are not the future of the union; we are the agents of now.” Success stories from SASBO in South Africa and ASSIBIFI in Nigeria were shared as examples of youth shaping union policy.
Mamadou Ibrahima Ndiaye from SYTS in Senegal remarked on youth’s potential impact: “When you give youth a chair at the table, they will build the house for your whole nation.” The climate crisis was another significant topic; Fatou Mourath Ndao (SNTPT, Senegal) stressed its importance: “Climate must be our priority.”
The conference concluded with a five-point action plan aiming to leverage demographic advantages for union strength by embedding youth leadership within UNI Africa’s agenda. Sister Crisnalda Nhaumcale from SINECOSSE in Mozambique was elected as UNI Africa Youth President. Vice-Presidents elected included Sister Kwanele Ngubane from SASBO in South Africa and Brother Hisham Moumen from UMT in Morocco.
Lebogang Keabetswe, UNI Africa Youth Coordinator stated: “We must continue building a movement that has the necessary tools and all the protection they need.”
