The Chairperson of the Specialised Technical Committee on Social Development, Labour and Employment says the African Union, in cooperation with member states, has made notable progress in strengthening policy frameworks, promoting regional cooperation and supporting member states in addressing some of the continent's most pressing social and labour challenges.

Abdoulaye Mbami made these remarks during the Specialised Technical Committee meeting in the capital.

Mbami stated that key continental instruments, including the fair and ethical recruitment strategy, migrant welfare programme framework, and access to justice, have strengthened migrant worker protection, promoted decent work and enhanced evidence-based labour migration governance.

“The African Union has also continued to advance disability inclusion, health, ageing, family development and rights-based social policies. The entry into force of the Protocol on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa alongside progress toward the ratification of the Protocol on the Rights of Older Persons reflects growing commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of vulnerable populations.”

Minister of Justice and Labour Relations, Wise Immanuel, emphasised that social protection is not merely a safety net, but rather a strategic investment in human capital, inclusive economic growth, resilience and social justice.

“Strong social protection systems safeguard dignity, strengthen social cohesion, promote productive employment and enable society to withstand economic, climatic and humanitarian shocks. The African youth population, as you may have heard earlier, presents an unparalleled opportunity to accelerate social development and economic transformation, and this population is therefore our dividend of the day.”

The Minister further stated that realising this demographic dividend requires investment in people through quality education, continuous skill development, productive employment and comprehensive social protection.