The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) has urged governments and citizens across the continent to embrace peace, unity and inclusive development as the world enters 2026.
In its New Year message, ITUC-Africa described 2026 as a crucial moment for renewing commitment to human-centred governance, social justice and multilateral cooperation, particularly in the face of growing economic and political pressures affecting African workers.
The organisation reflected on 2025 as a difficult year marked by rising inflation, conflict, democratic setbacks and shrinking civic space, noting that these challenges placed a heavy burden on working people across the continent.
Despite these difficulties, ITUC-Africa said African workers continued to demonstrate resilience, courage and solidarity, sustaining economies and communities even in fragile and conflict-affected regions such as Sudan, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and parts of Nigeria.
The union body called on African governments to prioritise decent employment, social protection and quality public services, with special attention to young people, women and persons with disabilities. It also stressed the need for a just transition to a greener economy that places people before profit.
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ITUC-Africa further urged leaders to strengthen social dialogue, promote disarmament, curb illicit financial flows and adopt fair taxation systems to support sustainable development. It emphasised that deeper regional integration and free movement under the African Continental Free Trade Area remain vital to Africa’s shared prosperity.
Warning against foreign interference and exploitative economic practices, the organisation said African unity is essential in a shifting global order, calling on the continent to speak with one voice and strengthen its economic independence.
ITUC-Africa concluded by appealing to workers and governments alike to choose dialogue, inclusion and cooperation as the foundation for peace and long-term development across Africa.
