The International Labour Day marks a pivotal moment to celebrate tremendous efforts and contributions of workers across the globe. It is an important day to recognise the crucial role that workers play in building and sustaining our economies, our communities and our societies. In the same vein, it is also a moment to cast our eyes back to reflect on the struggles, sacrifices and challenges that workers faced in the past and continue to face at present. However, Agenda 2063’s pioneering vision underscores the vital role of African workers in driving economic transformation, affirming that Africa’s greatest resource is not its minerals, but its people — the workers.

International Labour Day, celebrated at the start of every Africa Month -- May, offers a powerful juxtaposition. As Africa Month highlights the continent's rich heritage, unity and aspirations, Labour Day underscores the fundamental role of African workers in realizing that potential. It is a time to recognise workers’ contributions and ensure that the progress celebrated throughout Africa Month is built on the rich history of labour activism and many strides achieved by Africa, in advancing the rights and welfare of workers from the 20th century to the present day, which is no small feat. The dignity of labour is intrinsically linked to the dignity and advancement of the continent itself.

Recognising that the protection and promotion of the rights of migrant workers is a joint responsibility of both countries of origin and destination at all stages of migration, African Union aims towards the facilitation of labour movement and the promotion of inter-ministerial and cross-border coordination to march towards the “Africa we want.” For instance, migrant workers often remit funds to their home countries, which then provides significant sources of income and support to local economic development. Their skills transfer helps to develop local industries and create new job opportunities, new areas of entrepreneurship as well as increased trade. Far from overstating the fact, without integrating the role of migrant workers and defining labour protocol, the African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) cannot realize impactful productivity.

A Clarion Call for Dignity and Empowerment: Reclaiming Labour Day for African Progress
On this International Labour Day, the African Union stands in solidarity with the working women and men in Africa and the world, honouring their struggle for fair wages, safe working conditions and the fundamental dignity of labour within Africa’s past, present and future experiences in the world of work. For too long, the fruits of African toil have been disproportionately enjoyed by others, our resources extracted, exported and our people often subjected to exploitative practices, that affects the aspirations of Africa.

Long established and affirmed, labour is not merely a factor of production; it is the very essence of human development potential, the engine of our economies and the foundation upon which just and prosperous societies are predicated. The African Union recognises the invaluable contributions of every farmer tilling the land, every artisan honing their craft, every public servant dedicating their skills, every entrepreneur taking a risk, all informal economy workers without social protection and every worker powering our industries. This resonates deeply with the 2025 AU theme focusing on Social Justice - “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.”

We must commemorate Labour Day with a frank assessment of the challenges that persist - millions of Africans still face precarious employment, inadequate social protection and the denial of their fundamental labour rights. High youth unemployment rate remains a critical concern and a national security threat. The informal sector, while a vital source of livelihoods, and a significant contributor to national economies, often lacks the protection and opportunities afforded to those in formal employment thus betraying the principle of social justice.

The African Union calls for a renewed commitment to the following principles:
• Dignity in Labour;
• Empowerment through Skills and Opportunity;
• Social Justice and Inclusion; and
• Africa Solidarity.

Observing International Labour Day, during South Africa's G20 Presidency in 2025:
This is a significant dimension for the African continent. With the theme of "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability" guiding its leadership, Africa has a unique opportunity to amplify the voices and priorities of African workers on the global stage, serving a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of labour issues worldwide and the need for just transitions in the face of climate change and technological advancements. As the G20 Employment Working Group, under South Africa's guidance, focuses on inclusive growth, gender equality and addressing income inequality, International Labour Day provides a crucial platform for all G20 members to advocate for decent work, social protection and fair wages across Africa. The launch of the Brisbane Action Plan which underlines the importance of gender participation and address the declining labour income share within the G20 framework, gained impetus on this day, highlighting the urgent need for global collaboration to ensure a future of work that is just and inclusive.

We will not get too excited about these successes, because a lot of work needs to be done. Collectively, we should focus on strengthening labour laws and regulations, promoting social protections, advocating for workers’ rights and well-being and quality healthcare access, including migrant workers, and fostering a culture of respect for workers' rights and dignity in our societies, including the right to form labour unions and engage in collective bargaining. This will create an enabling environment that allows all workers to thrive and prosper, curtailing all avenues of being victims to human trafficking and forced labour.

Africa reaffirms its commitment to the principles and values of universal human rights, through the AU Declaration on the Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Workers. It is also important to raise awareness of deliberate implementation of legislations aimed at addressing and eliminating human trafficking, abuse, gender-based violence and harassment in the community and within the world of work.
The commemoration of the International Labour Day 2025 is a stark reminder for African countries to move beyond rhetoric and recommit to concrete actions that prioritize the well-being, dignity and empowerment of African workers. Like never before, the future of our continent is fully dependent on the contribution of labour.

I thank you.