Fifth Quadrennial Congress of FESTU Concludes with Resolve to Defend Workers’ Rights

How does one begin to measure the pulse of a movement? The air was thick with determination as the Fifth Quadrennial Congress of the Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) reached its conclusion in Mogadishu on February 12, 2025. It was more than just a gathering; it was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the Somali labour movement. With 328 delegates—53% men and 47% women—hailing from both the bustling regions of the five Federal Member States and the vibrant city of Mogadishu, the Congress was nothing short of a landmark event.

The event, themed “Empowering Workers’ Voice for Justice, Democracy and Inclusive Development,” witnessed the esteemed presence of Somali government luminaries, including Deputy Prime Minister Abdisalan Abdi Ali. Alongside him were the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs, Yusuf Mohamed Adan, and the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hassan Moallim Mohamud. As the Deputy Prime Minister spoke, he offered assurances that were music to the delegates’ ears: a government firmly committed to protecting the rights of Somali workers, bolstering social dialogue, and prioritizing the Decent Work Agenda.

Image the room: an air of international camaraderie was palpable. Distinguished members of the diplomatic corps dotted the assembly, aligning themselves with the movement’s objectives. British Ambassador to Somalia Mike Nithavrianakis, Italian Ambassador Pier Mario Daccò Coppi, and a senior representative from the U.S. Embassy endorsed the gathering, their presence a testament to the shared ambition of safeguarding Somali workers’ rights and fortifying trade union organisations. Could there be a more powerful demonstration of unity?

When Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), rose to speak, his words resonated beyond the hall. “FESTU,” he said, “stands as a bulwark for workers’ rights globally.” He lauded the union’s effective promotion of social dialogue as a conflict resolution tool and triumphantly announced FESTU’s inclusion in the Global Coalition for Social Justice.

Khumbula Ndaba, ILO Director for the Horn of Africa, journeyed to Mogadishu, underscoring solidarity with FESTU’s unyielding fight for workers’ rights. Meanwhile, Maria Helena André from ACTRAV commended FESTU for its ceaseless quest to empower workers, praising its significant role in shaping progressive labour policies.

The Congress was enveloped in a fervent show of solidarity from global and regional trade union leaders. Joel Odigie and Eric Manzi—key figures from the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC)—celebrated FESTU’s leadership, saluting its indomitable spirit in placing labour rights prominently on Somalia’s national agenda.

In a spirited address, Kassahun Follo of the Horn of Africa Confederation of Trade Unions (HACTU), accentuated the need for a regional, worker-centric agenda. Follo’s words were more than rhetoric; they were a pledge of sustained solidarity with FESTU’s mission. Salvatore Marra from the Italian General Confederation of Labour echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the historical partnership and shared objectives between Somali and Italian trade unions.

The Congress wasn’t all pomp and ceremony. Heady debates delved into acutely pressing issues faced by Somali workers. Resolutions strived to reinforce labour rights, advance social justice, and cement social dialogue as a bedrock of national development. What’s more, delegates examined the contentious topic of democratic transition, voicing robust opposition to previously unjust electoral models. The call was clear: a transparent, people-focused democracy is imperative.

Tackling another pressing issue—the scourge of gender-based violence—delegates committed to eradicating violence and discrimination, ardently advocating for women’s empowerment and the rights of persons with disabilities.

The Congress saw the adoption of resolutions aimed at enforcing new labour laws, enhancing union membership, institutionalizing dialogue mechanisms, and vigorously protecting the rights of migrant workers. A key highlight? The democratic election of a new Executive Leadership, a formidable team charged with steering FESTU towards further triumphs over the next four years.

As delegates departed, their spirits remained aflame, driven by a collective resolve to trailblaze a path for workers’ rights and social justice across Somalia. They left behind not just echoes of impassioned speeches but a legacy of action. It symbolized a reawakening, a gathering storm of change; a Congress that articulated a clear commitment to a more just and equitable future in the Horn of Africa.

Standing in solidarity, representing 12 union affiliates that comprise 179,460 workers nationwide, the Congress epitomized solidarity, resolve, and unity—a resounding affirmation that their united voice will continue to advocate for justice, democracy, and workers’ rights in the years to come.

Report By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring