African mining unions have resolved to strengthen continental solidarity to protect workers’ rights and ensure Africa derives greater benefits from its mineral wealth.
Speaking at the 3rd Executive Council Meeting of the Federation of African Miners and Mineral Wealth in Accra, Ghana, Federation President Joseph Chewe said unions must act collectively to respond to growing global competition for Africa’s critical minerals.
Mr. Chewe, who also serves as President of the Mineworkers Union of Zambia, warned that outsourcing, flexible labour systems, and external control of production are undermining job security and weakening collective bargaining across the mining sector.
He emphasised the need for Africa to move beyond raw mineral exports toward value addition, manufacturing, and job creation within the continent.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment Abdul-Rashid Hassan Peupuo called for stronger regional cooperation through the African Continental Free Trade Area to help African countries retain control over strategic mineral resources.
