UASA Media Release: 2 September 2025
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
UASA has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering workers and promoting progressive change within the labour movement during the IndustriALL Regional Conference in Accra, Ghana, this week. This conference also serves as part of the region’s action plan for IndustriALL’s global congress scheduled for November.
UASA continues to advocate for increased youth and women’s representation in trade union leadership across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This advocacy is evident through active participation in the Women’s Leadership Meeting, themed “Building a Vision for Women Leadership in the Trade Union Movement,” and the Regional Youth Committee Meeting, which focused on “Embracing Technology and Innovation at Work.”
As an integral part of the IndustriALL Youth Committee, UASA is proud that its youth arm facilitated discussions with committee representatives. These discussions centred on how unions can effectively respond to automation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation by equipping workers with new skills and creating youth-led digital strategies.
While, the Women’s Leadership Meeting attended by UASA President Patience Mapitsi call for greater visibility of women leaders in unions resonated strongly with delegates. Attendees shared strategies to dismantle systemic barriers and create inclusive spaces for women to lead, influence policy and shape a more equitable future of work.
UASA has long recognised that women are disproportionately affected by workplace inequalities and is dedicated to ensuring that women’s voices are heard and included in decision-making processes. We actively support the youth and women’s committees within IndustriALL and the broader labour movement. As a labour organisation, we must prepare workers for the future,ensure fair opportunities regardless of gender or age and challenge workplace systems that leave vulnerable groups behind.
Throughout the week, UASA delegates, led by the President, will participate in various discussions on Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) and executive meetings. The HRDD conference will focus on “Promoting Human Rights and Responsible Business Conduct in the World of Work: From Global Frameworks to African Realities,” while the executive meeting will prepare the region for the upcoming global congress.
UASA remains committed to progressive strategies for youth and women’s development, continuing to amplify their voices while building sustainable platforms for leadership development and advocacy. By embracing innovation and prioritising inclusion, UASA ensures that the labour movement remains relevant, resilient and representative in an ever-evolving world of work.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview, contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.