UASA Media Release: 2 November 2023
Image source: www.gov.za/agoa-forum
Statement by Abigail Moyo, spokesperson of the trade union UASA:
The 20th African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum of Organised Labour and Civil Society is underway at Johannesburg Expo Centre in Soweto under the theme “Partnering to Build a Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive AGOA to Support Economic Development, Industrialisation and Quality Job Creation”.
Through its affiliation with FEDUSA, UASA is pleased to be part of this global industry platform through which we can positively contribute towards industry discussions on behalf of our members and all workers.
There are breakout sessions which we will attend at the event such as;
• Boosting and Diversifying Exports under AGOA through Initiatives Including Prosper Africa’s Buyer-Supplier Network
• Diversifying Global Supply Chains
• Partnership on Standards and Quality Assurance in Support of Increased Intra-Africa Trade and Trade with the United States
The forum brings together vital labour partners, including ITUC Africa, the Solidarity Centre and South African labour federations and congresses – represented through the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) Labour constituency.
The Minister of Employment and Labour, Thulas Nxesi, explained in his opening remarks that this forum is a significant step to elevate some critical issues concerning employment, labour rights and trade matters in South Africa.
Nxesi further reflected on the importance and need for South Africa to leverage the immense potential of a youthful workforce in our country and consider the forces at play in shaping the future of work globally and on the continent.
UASA is pleased to be part of such a ground-breaking forum and believes that the forum’s outcome will significantly assist our markets, sector and economy globally. Job creation is a requisite economic miracle that fellow South Africans desperately need. Any forum that attempts to remedy this pandemic is welcome.
For further enquiries or to set up a personal interview,contact Abigail Moyo at 065 170 0162.