To promote workers' rights, the President of Namibia emphasizes the importance of cooperation with the International Labour Organization.

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah received the Director-General of the International Labour Organization, Gilbert Houngbo, during a courtesy visit to the Presidential Palace, where the two sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the areas of labor, employment and social protection.

The President welcomed the international official, expressing her appreciation for his keenness to visit Namibia despite his busy schedule, stressing that this visit reflects the depth of relations between the country and the International Labour Organization, and the continuation of cooperation on issues related to workers’ rights and social development.

Historical cooperation since the national liberation phase

The President noted that cooperation between Namibia and the International Labour Organization dates back to the struggle for independence, when the SWAPO movement worked closely with the organization on issues related to workers and their rights.

She added that this cooperation contributed to the establishment of the National Union of Workers of Namibia, where the International Labour Organization played an important role in providing advice and technical support to develop labor institutions, promote workers' rights, and build a fairer working environment.

Praise for Namibia's role within the organization

For his part, the Director-General of the International Labour Organization expressed his appreciation to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah for receiving him and the accompanying delegation, praising the active role that Namibia plays within the organization.

He affirmed that Namibia continues to support efforts aimed at promoting decent work, consolidating social justice, and encouraging dialogue between governments, employers, and workers, in order to contribute to achieving sustainable economic and social development.

Supporting regional cooperation on labor issues

Hongbo praised the leadership of the Namibian president and her government’s commitment to strengthening regional cooperation in the areas of employment, workers’ rights and social protection systems, stressing that these efforts contribute to addressing the challenges facing labor markets in the African continent.

He also stressed the importance of continued coordination between governments and international organizations to provide better job opportunities, improve working conditions, and expand the social protection umbrella for the most vulnerable groups.

Ongoing partnership for development

The meeting reflects Namibia and the International Labour Organization’s commitment to continuing cooperation in implementing programs aimed at developing the labor market and promoting workers’ rights, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Observers believe that the continuation of this cooperation would support Namibia’s efforts to improve the work environment, raise employment rates, and enhance social and economic stability, which would positively impact the country’s development.