Transforming labour and employment in Southern Africa: a look at the latest SADC developments
The Joint Tripartite Technical Committee (JTTC) Meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Employment and Labour Sector convened in Johannesburg, South Africa, from November 19–21, 2024, ushering in crucial decisions for labour and employment transformation across the region. Representatives from ten member states, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and other stakeholders tackled pressing issues that directly impact regional growth and employment.
Employment Impact Assessments: Maximizing Potential
A key highlight of the meeting was the dialogue on Employment Impact Assessments (EmpIAs). Recognized as critical tools for aligning investment strategies with employment goals, the assessments are pivotal in addressing unemployment and fostering economic growth. EmpIAs have shown success in Malawi and Namibia, helping integrate job creation into national policies. Lessons from South Korea's legislative-backed models inspired calls for stronger institutionalization across the region.
Status of SADC Protocol on Employment and Labour
Progress on the SADC Protocol on Employment and Labour was also reviewed. While seven member states have signed the Protocol, none have ratified it. Urging further action, the JTTC emphasized that ratification is essential for advancing inclusive and productive employment and ensuring non-discriminatory labour markets.
Labour Market Insights: Underutilization and Inequality
A report on SADC’s labour market painted a mixed picture. Labour force participation rates in most countries exceeded 50%, but youth unemployment remains alarmingly high in South Africa at nearly 60%. Addressing these disparities requires cohesive efforts to implement pro-employment strategies and policies.
TVET and Skills Development
The committee welcomed the draft revision of the SADC Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Strategic Framework. Set to drive digital transformation, just transitions to green economies, and skills mobility, the framework promises to equip workers for evolving market demands while fostering regional competitiveness.
Labour Migration Action Plan Implementation
The Labour Migration Action Plan (2020–2025) came under scrutiny for its lagging outputs, such as the portability of social security benefits and cost-effective remittance transfers. Nonetheless, progress was noted in institutional strengthening and bilateral cooperation, with Zambia leading efforts through a tripartite technical committee.
The Path Ahead
The meeting underscored the importance of regional cooperation and technical capacity building to overcome resource constraints and harmonize labour strategies. The creation of the SADC Labour Market Observatory, slated for launch in 2025, was lauded as a significant step forward in collecting and analyzing labour data to inform policymaking.
As SADC works toward its 2050 vision of a competitive and inclusive industrialized region, these resolutions highlight a determined push to strengthen labour markets, ensure equitable economic growth, and promote sustainable employment. The road ahead requires unwavering commitment from all member states, partners, and stakeholders to turn these ambitious plans into tangible results.
29 November 2024
Source: ILO
