PRIME MINISTER Kassim Majaliwa has called on trade unions across Africa to establish effective strategies for coping with global technological advancements, warning that failure to do so could lead to widespread job losses due to the rise of machines and emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Speaking on Friday, August 22, 2025, while representing President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan at the General Assembly of the Organization of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) held at Johari Rotana Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Majaliwa said the current global landscape is witnessing rapid transformations driven by technological revolutions and globalization.
“There is a growing risk of people losing their jobs as modern machines and systems take over tasks that were traditionally done by human workers. We must establish ongoing training programs aligned with technological shifts to prepare workers for emerging types of employment,” Majaliwa stated.
He explained that Tanzania, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has put in place measures to embrace these changes, including promoting responsible use of new technologies such as AI while ensuring the protection of workers’ rights and privacy.
“Technology must uphold human dignity and not undermine the value of labor,” he emphasized.
Majaliwa also noted that empowering workers through skill development programs is another key area of focus, especially for young people. These initiatives aim to equip them with the knowledge and competencies required in evolving sectors such as the green and digital economies.
“Our goal is to ensure our people, especially the youth, are equipped with future-ready skills,” he added.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s recognition and appreciation of the significant role trade unions play in advancing workers’ rights and welfare. He pledged continued collaboration with unions to improve labor conditions in the country.
“The government has given trade unions the freedom to operate independently. We urge continued consultation and cooperation to further enhance working conditions and employee benefits,” he said.
He further noted that the strong cooperation between the government and labor unions has enabled Tanzania to implement key labor-related reforms, including policy updates, legal frameworks, and better worker protections.
Additionally, Majaliwa pledged that Tanzania will continue supporting the efforts of OATUU, in honor of the legacy of the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, the founding father of the Tanzanian nation and a co-founder of the trade union federation.
Deputy Minister for Labour, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Patrobas Katambi, stated that the government continues to work closely with trade unions and has enacted various policies and laws aimed at improving workers’ welfare.
Joshua Ansah, Vice President of OATUU, assured attendees that the federation remains committed to championing the rights and interests of African workers and promoting equality and fairness in the labor sector across the continent.
“Let us continue to support our federation for the greater good of African workers. Together, we will keep pushing for better conditions and fair treatment,” said Ansah.
Caroline Mugala, Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) for the East African Region, highlighted the need for strong and effective unions to ensure governments remain accountable for upholding workers’ rights.
“We must continue protecting our workers amid various social changes, including environmental and technological shifts. It’s crucial that workers are trained and empowered to cope with these changes,” she said.
Mugala also emphasized that all labor-related reforms must involve the workers themselves and be agreed upon collectively to ensure mutual benefits.
Meanwhile, the President of the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA), Tumaini Nyamhokya, said the union is proud of its achievements in defending workers’ rights in the country.
“These successes have come as a result of the strong relationships we’ve built with the government and public servants, which have enabled us to fulfill our mission and work efficiently,” he stated.
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