The importance of social protection, gender equality, disability inclusion and gender-responsive policies were among the issues highlighted during the just-concluded Sixth Ordinary Session of the African Union Specialised Technical Committee on Social Development, Labour and Employment expert meeting.

Africa's labour force grew to over 509 million people in 2022, while the number of international migrants on the continent rose to 26 million.

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'

Namibia is set to host and lead the Sixth Ordinary Session of the African Union Specialised Technical Committee on Social Development, Labour and Employment. 

Held in a tripartite format, the session will be from 27 to 31 July 2026 in Windhoek.