GEA Participates in the 7th African Social Partners Summit
On 7th and 8th of February 2024, Mr. Joseph K. Amuah, Director of Industrial Relations at GEA participated in the prestigious 7th African Social Partners (ASP) Summit held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The summit was organized by the International Organisation of Employers (IOE) in collaboration with the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE), and with support from the European Union and Business Africa.
Over the years, the African Social Partners (ASP) Summits have played a crucial role in generating multi-stakeholder guidance, documents, and materials aimed at guiding efforts to build skills and foster employment opportunities across Africa. Previous summits held in cities like Casablanca, Tunis, Algiers, and Abidjan have contributed significantly to shaping strategies for enhancing employment prospects and economic growth on the continent.
The 2024 Summit convened to review the current national progress on employment creation across African countries. It also aimed to outline each country’s priorities and identify effective strategies for promoting inclusive growth, sustainable development, and resilience. One of the key focuses was on liaising with different agencies to provide updated information and resources for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), outlining how various policies and implementation plans would impact or improve ways of working for these vital economic contributors.
The Summit emphasised the need to foster growth and entrepreneurial development by creating a business-friendly environment, facilitating access to capital and mentorship, and promoting diversity and resilience.
Agri-business was also at the core of discussions. Participants called for policies that encourage businesses to formalise and enhance productivity through sustainable agriculture powered by technological innovation.
Advancing renewable energy and sustainable transportation was also a key priority, with a focus on policy support and public-private partnerships to spur investments in these sectors, offering new job opportunities and contributing to a greener economy.
Efforts to enhance labour market systems through technology adoption, social dialogue, and training were highlighted, ensuring workforce preparedness for the future while promoting a collaborative environment.
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the negotiation of social compacts were underscored as crucial elements, alongside innovative financial solutions and tripartite agreements that balance interests across the economic spectrum.
Lastly, the Summit stressed the importance of strengthening partner capacities through tailored capacity-building initiatives, ensuring all stakeholders are equipped to navigate economic changes and foster international cooperation.
As a leading voice representing employers in Ghana, GEA’s participation in the 7th ASP Summit was instrumental. The insights and perspectives shared by the Association contributed significantly to the discussions on employment creation, inclusive growth, and resilience-building in the post-pandemic era. At the summit, GEA reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an enabling environment for businesses, promoting job creation, and advancing economic prosperity in Ghana and beyond.