Trade Unions urged to invest more in workers’ skills development

NJOMBE: TRADE unions have been urged to invest more in workers’ education and skills development to keep pace with the rapidly changing world of work.

International Labour Organization (ILO) East Africa Director, Caroline Mugalla, made the call during a workers’ conference held in Njombe Region on April 30, 2026,  stressing that continuous learning remains the backbone of workers’ progress.

Speaking at the event sponsored by the International Labour Organization, Mugalla said unions must prioritise capacity building for their members to enable them to adapt to emerging workplace demands.

“Workers’ education is critical. None of us would be where we are today without learning and continuous self-improvement,” she said.

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She underscored the importance of dignity and respect in the workplace, citing domestic workers as an example, and emphasised that professional relationships should be built on mutual respect and clear boundaries.

National Domestic Workers Chairperson, Zanini Athumani, called for greater recognition of domestic workers, urging employers to ensure timely payment of wages and inclusive engagement at workplaces.

Earlier, welcoming the ILO official on behalf of the President of the Tanzania Trade Union Congress, Joel Kaminyonge—who also chairs the Tanzania Union of Government and Health Employees—commended the ILO for its continued support, noting that the partnership has delivered significant gains for workers in the country.