51st ARLAC Governing Council Meeting Opens in Lusaka with a Call for Labour Market Reforms

ARLAC, a regional intergovernmental organization, has a longstanding mandate to enhance labour administration systems within its member countries.

The 51st African Regional Labour Administration Centre (ARLAC) Governing Council Meeting for Ministers Responsible for Labour, Employment, and Manpower Issues officially commenced in Lusaka, Zambia. The event, running from February 11 to 14, 2025, brings together representatives from over 18 member states to deliberate on innovative strategies to address informality in the labour market and promote transitions towards formality, ensuring decent work for all.

The meeting was preceded by the 25th Session of the Committee of Senior Officials Responsible for Labour, Employment, and Manpower. This session was chaired by Zimbabwe's Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Mr. Edgar Moyo, who emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in strengthening labour systems across the continent.

The high-level ministerial symposium, focusing on "Innovative Approaches to Tackling Informality and Promoting Transitions Towards Formality to Promote Decent Work," will be delivered by Zambia's Minister of Labour and Social Security, Mrs. Brenda Tambatamba. Her address is expected to highlight practical strategies and policy recommendations to improve labour conditions across Africa.

Welcoming the delegates, Zambia's Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary, Mr. Zechariah Luhanga, expressed profound gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for endorsing the ministry's role in hosting the governing council meeting. Mr. Luhanga encouraged delegates to seize the opportunity to explore Zambia's rich cultural heritage and tourist attractions, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange alongside policy discussions.

ARLAC, a regional intergovernmental organization, has a longstanding mandate to enhance labour administration systems within its member countries. Through training, research, consultancy, advisory services, and publications, ARLAC continues to play a pivotal role in advancing labour standards across Africa. Initially, membership was limited to English-speaking African nations that ratified the ARLAC agreement, but the organization's constitution now welcomes all African countries to join its mission.

As discussions unfold over the coming days, member states are expected to share best practices, innovative policies, and collaborative strategies to tackle labour market challenges, fostering a more equitable and formalized employment landscape across the continent.