Aasai

The Secretary General of the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU-K), Francis Atwoli, has sounded the alarm over the growing threat of political instability across Africa, warning that trade unions must not be passive observers as peace, security, and livelihoods come under attack. Speaking during the official opening of the ITUC-Africa Regional Conference on Peace and Security held in Nairobi on Friday, July 18, 2025, Atwoli stressed that the time had come for labour movements to step up and defend the continent’s fragile peace.

He stated that political instability, including coups, civil unrest, and violent extremism, has led to the collapse of industries, job losses, and suppression of trade union rights. “As COTU (K), we cannot afford to be bystanders and allow political instability to creep in and destroy the peace that many depend on for economic and social progress,” said Atwoli. He emphasized that women, children, and workers often pay the highest price when conflict erupts.

According to Atwoli, the recently released 2024 Global Peace Index revealed a disturbing trend of declining peacefulness globally, with Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing some of the worst deterioration. He cited multiple military takeovers, displacement of workers, and weakening of institutional democracy as serious concerns that demand the attention of labour leaders. “Union density is falling, workers are being pushed into informal and unsafe employment, and freedoms of association and collective bargaining are being increasingly threatened,” he noted.

The high-level regional gathering brought together leaders from over 30 national trade union centres across Africa to discuss the critical role of labour unions in promoting peace and stability. Participants deliberated on how to strengthen the capacity of unions to engage in peacebuilding efforts at national, regional, and continental levels, especially in areas prone to conflict or governance breakdowns.

Atwoli further stated that COTU (K) remains firmly committed to supporting peace through social dialogue and tripartism—working jointly with governments, employers, and workers to resolve grievances, promote economic justice, and address pressing issues such as youth unemployment. He noted that the continent’s youth must be given hope and opportunities, not used as tools by politicians to incite unrest.

“As a union, we have always advocated for sober and mature political discourse,” Atwoli said. “We continue to urge our political leaders to show restraint and pursue dialogue. At the same time, we are reminding the youth not to be used to disrupt peaceful environments. Our future depends on unity and a shared commitment to stability.”

He also urged the media to be more conscious of its influence on public opinion and political tensions. “I took time to call upon the media to practice responsible journalism that unites people instead of fueling divisions. The media should never be a platform for inciting violence or chaos.”

The ITUC-Africa conference concluded with a unified resolution by union leaders to defend democracy, promote social cohesion, and advocate for inclusive governance. Delegates reaffirmed their commitment to standing up for workers’ rights while actively participating in national efforts to foster peace, economic growth, and sustainable development across Africa.