Somali Port Workers Union

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Somali Port Workers Union has fully welcomed Government anti-corruption campaign.

Somali Port Workers Union has fully welcomed Government’s anti-corruption campaign. Secretary General of Somali Port Workers Union( SOPWU) Abshir Abdirahman said ‘’ We as Somali Port Workers Union are fully welcomed Government anti-corruption campaign. Government anti-corruption campaigns are important for several reasons: Transparency and Accountability: Such campaigns promote transparency in government activities and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions. By combating corruption, governments can establish trust and confidence among their citizens. Economic Development: Corruption undermines economic growth by diverting resources away from productive sectors and into the pockets of corrupt officials. Anti-corruption efforts can help create a level playing field for businesses, attract investment, and foster economic development. Social Justice: Corruption disproportionately affects the most vulnerable members of society. By fighting corruption, governments can reduce poverty, improve access to basic services like healthcare and education, and promote social justice. Strengthening Institutions: Anti-corruption campaigns often involve strengthening institutions such as law enforcement agencies, judiciary, and anti-corruption commissions. This process can lead to more robust governance structures and the rule of law. International Reputation: Countries with effective anti-corruption measures gain credibility on the global stage. They are seen as reliable partners for trade, investment, and international cooperation. This can improve diplomatic relations and enhance a country’s reputation in the international community. Supporting government anti-corruption campaigns can be done through various means, such as: Public Awareness: Promoting awareness about the negative impacts of corruption through media, education, and public campaigns can help mobilize public support and create a culture of intolerance towards corruption.Whistleblower Protection: Encouraging and protecting individuals who report corruption is crucial. Establishing mechanisms to protect whistleblowers can facilitate the exposure of corrupt practices and help authorities take appropriate actions.Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Advocating for comprehensive anti-corruption legislation and reforms, including stricter penalties for corruption offenses, can contribute to the effectiveness of anti-corruption campaigns.Citizen Participation: Engaging citizens in decision-making processes, promoting citizen oversight of government activities, and supporting civil society organizations working on anti-corruption initiatives can create a more participatory and accountable governance system.It’s important to note that each country’s context and specific anti-corruption challenges may vary. Therefore, tailored approaches and strategies are necessary to address the unique circumstances and root causes of corruption in a particular jurisdiction.

Our Secretary General of Somali Port Workers Union(SOPWU) Abshir Abdirahman met with the Speaker of the Somali Parliament Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe and discussed how to strengthen the cooperation between the Parliament and Somalia Port Workers Union (SOPWU)

Our Secretary General of the Somali Port Workers Union(SOPWU) Abshir Abdirahman met with the Speaker of the Somali Parliament Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe and discussed how to strengthen the cooperation between the Parliament and Somalia Port Workers Union (SOPWU) Our Secretary General of Somali Port Workers Union(SOPWU) Abshir Abdirahman met with the Speaker of the Somali Parliament Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe and discussed how to strengthen the cooperation between the Parliament and Somalia Port Workers Union (SOPWU) said something more During the meeting the Secretary General of the Somalia Port Workers Union (SOPWU), had a fruitful discussion with the Speaker of the Somali Parliament, Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe. The primary focus of the meeting was to explore ways to strengthen the cooperation and collaboration between the Parliament and the Somalia Port Worker Union. The participants acknowledged the vital role played by port workers in ensuring the smooth functioning of cities and towns across Somalia. They recognized the importance of addressing the concerns and welfare of these workers to enhance their effectiveness and contribute to the overall development of the country. During the discussion Mr. Abdirahman emphasized the need for closer coordination between the Parliament and SOPWU to address the challenges faced by port workers effectively. They discussed several key areas of collaboration, including: Legislative Support: The SOPWU representatives proposed the development of legislation and policies that protect the rights and interests of port workers. They sought the Parliament’s support in enacting laws that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and social security benefits for the workers.Capacity Building: Both parties recognized the importance of training and capacity-building programs for port workers. They discussed the possibility of organizing workshops, seminars, and skill development initiatives to enhance the workers’ knowledge and expertise in their respective fields.Social Dialogue: Mr. Abdirahman highlighted the significance of fostering a constructive social dialogue between the Parliament and SOPWU. He emphasized the need for regular consultations and engagement to address grievances, negotiate collective agreements, and resolve labor-related disputes in a peaceful and mutually beneficial manner.Advocacy and Representation: The SOPWU representatives sought the Parliament’s support in advocating for the rights and interests of port workers at the national level. They discussed the importance of representation and engagement in policy-making processes to ensure that the concerns of workers are adequately addressed.The Speaker of the Somali Parliament, Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe, expressed his appreciation for SOPWU’s efforts in improving the working conditions of port workers. He assured the SOPWU representatives of the Parliament’s commitment to working closely with them to strengthen cooperation and address the identified areas of collaboration. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to establish a joint working group comprising representatives from the Parliament and SOPWU. This group would be responsible for further discussions, formulation of action plans, and implementation of initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare and effectiveness of port workers in Somalia. The participants acknowledged the vital role played by port workers. They recognized the importance of addressing the concerns and welfare of these workers to enhance their effectiveness and contribute to the overall development of the country. During the discussion Mr. Abdirahman emphasized the need for closer coordination between the Parliament and SOPWU to address the challenges faced by port workers effectively. They discussed several key areas of collaboration, including: Legislative Support: The SOPWU representatives proposed the development of legislation and policies that protect the rights and interests of port workers. They sought the Parliament’s support in enacting laws that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and social security benefits for the workers.Capacity Building: Both parties recognized the importance of training and capacity-building programs for port workers. They discussed the possibility of organizing workshops, seminars, and skill development initiatives to enhance the workers’ knowledge and expertise in their respective fields.Social Dialogue: Mr. Abdirahman highlighted the significance of fostering a constructive social dialogue between the Parliament and SOPWU. They emphasized the need for regular consultations and engagement to address grievances, negotiate collective agreements, and resolve labor-related disputes in a peaceful and mutually beneficial manner.Advocacy and Representation: The SOPWU representatives sought the Parliament’s support in advocating for the rights and interests of port workers at the national level. They discussed the importance of representation and engagement in policy-making processes to ensure that the concerns of workers are adequately addressed.The Speaker of the Somali Parliament, Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe, expressed his appreciation for SOPWU’s efforts in improving the working conditions of port workers. He assured the SOPWU representatives of the Parliament’s commitment to working closely with them to strengthen cooperation and address the identified areas of collaboration. The meeting concluded with a mutual agreement to establish a joint working group comprising representatives from the Parliament and SOPWU. This group would be responsible for further discussions, formulation of action plans, and implementation of initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare and effectiveness of port workers in Somalia. During the meeting, Mr. Abdikadir Hassan, the Deputy Chairman of the Somalia Port Workers Union (SOPWU), and Mr. Abshir Abdirahman, the Chairman-General, had a fruitful discussion with the Speaker of the Somali Parliament, Mr. Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe. The primary focus of the meeting was to explore ways to strengthen the cooperation and collaboration between the Parliament and the Somalia Municipal Workers Union. The participants acknowledged the vital role played by municipal workers in ensuring the smooth functioning of cities and towns across Somalia. They recognized the importance of addressing the concerns and welfare of these workers to enhance their effectiveness and contribute to the overall development of the country. During the discussion, Mr. Hassan and Mr. Abdirahman emphasized the need for closer coordination between the Parliament and SOPWU to address the challenges faced by municipal workers effectively. They discussed several key areas of collaboration, including: Legislative Support: The SOPWU representatives proposed the development of legislation and policies that protect the rights and interests of municipal workers. They sought the Parliament’s support in enacting laws that ensure fair wages, safe working conditions,

Kismayo port workers’ unions are concerned about very low wages.

Kismayo port workers unions are concerned about very low wages. The concerns raised by Kismayo port workers unions regarding very low wages are indeed significant. Low wages can have a profound impact on the livelihoods of workers and their families, affecting their ability to meet basic needs and improve their standard of living. It is important to address these concerns and ensure that workers are paid fair and livable wages for their labor. Fair wages are not only a matter of social justice, but they also contribute to a more equitable society and sustainable economic growth. When workers are paid a fair wage, they are more likely to be motivated, productive, and have a higher quality of life. This, in turn, can lead to increased job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and improved overall economic stability. To address this issue, it is crucial for the relevant authorities, employers, and unions to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiations. This dialogue should focus on establishing fair wage structures that take into account factors such as cost of living, market conditions, and the value of the work being performed. Additionally, efforts should be made to ensure that these wages are regularly reviewed and adjusted to keep pace with inflation and changing economic conditions. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the broader labor rights of workers, such as safe working conditions, reasonable working hours, and access to social security benefits. A comprehensive approach that addresses these aspects can create an environment where workers are treated with dignity and respect, and their rights and well-being are protected. Ultimately, improving wages for Kismayo port workers requires collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders involved. By working together, it is possible to create a fair and just working environment that recognizes the value of labor and supports the welfare of workers. The concerns raised by Kismayo port workers unions regarding very low wages are indeed significant. Low wages can have a profound impact on the livelihoods of workers and their families, affecting their ability to meet basic needs and improve their standard of living. It is important to address these concerns and ensure that workers are paid fair and livable wages for their labor. Fair wages are not only a matter of social justice, but they also contribute to a more equitable society and sustainable economic growth. When workers are paid a fair wage, they are more likely to be motivated, productive, and have a higher quality of life. This, in turn, can lead to increased job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and improved overall economic stability. To address this issue, it is crucial for the relevant authorities, employers, and unions to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiations. This dialogue should focus on establishing fair wage structures that take into account factors such as cost of living, market conditions, and the value of the work being performed. Additionally, efforts should be made to ensure that these wages are regularly reviewed and adjusted to keep pace with inflation and changing economic conditions. Furthermore, it is essential to consider the broader labor rights of workers, such as safe working conditions, reasonable working hours, and access to social security benefits. A comprehensive approach that addresses these aspects can create an environment where workers are treated with dignity and respect, and their rights and well-being are protected. Ultimately, improving wages for Kismayo port workers requires collaboration and commitment from all stakeholders involved. By working together, it is possible to create a fair and just working environment that recognizes the value of labor and supports the welfare of workers.

Somalia Port Workers Union Hold Mass Demonstration against Turkish Firm Taking Over Mogadishu Port.

Somalia Port Workers Union Hold Mass Demonstration against Turkish Firm Taking Over Mogadishu Port. Thousands of demonstrators of Mogadishu Sea Port Stevedoring Union demonstrated against job cuts on Tuesday 23 September in the Somali capital Mogadishu. The workers had begun to surround the Mogadishu port and marched all the way to the parliament Building where they circled the building holding a mass rally and denouncing Al Beyrak, a Turkish company which had recently entered into an agreement with the Somali government to manage operations at the Mogadishu port. The demonstrators proceeded from the parliament building to the presidential palace denouncing the terms of the deal with the Turkish firm which gives 45% of port profits to the firm and retrenches over 5000 Somali port workers. The main objective of the demonstration was to make clear the concern of the Stevedoring Union affiliated with the Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SCTU) about the negative impact of the recently signed agreement between the Somali government and the Turkish Company. Al Beyrak Turizm Inset Ticaret A.S. is the full name of the Turkish firm awarded management rights over Mogadishu’s port despite a clear stipulation in Somalia’s constitution that all international agreements must be submitted by the government to the Auditor General who in terms has submitted the agreement to parliament for review and ratification. This Company, which has been a major conglomerate in operation since 1952 was not submitted to parliamentary scrutiny. Concerned MPs working with workers represented by the SCTU have tabled a motion in parliament calling for an immediate review of the agreement and the Prime Minister has been summoned to parliament to explain the terms of his government’s agreement with AlBeyrak. The minister of labour is also expected to be questioned on the same matter. Mohamed Osman, the Chairman of SCTU has made clear workers’ concerns about the agreement which will result in thousands of Somali families losing the income of their primary breadwinner. “We have learnt that the government does not respond to the weak; we have to unite and be a force that moves together. We have made this demand before, but the government ignored andrefused to listen to the workers from the Somali working class and Turkey’s intervention and exploitation resulting in the retrenchment of thousands of our port workers is simply unacceptable.” said the chairman. “From today thousand will be idle through no fault of their own”, he added. “Somali Congress of Trade Unions (SCTU) will welcome any agreement between the government and foreign firms enhancing the living standards of Somali employees but we are against the planned job cuts harming the working class of our country including youths and older people who are currently employed”, added the chairman”. This demonstration is a direct result of the thousands of jobs cuts which the government of Somalia recently agreed to as a result of Al Beyrak’s recommendations to manage the operations of the seaport of Mogadishu.” The chairman thanked members of the international trade union movement for their solidarity singling out the International Transport Federation (ITF). “We will remember our comrades who spoke out for us in this time of need” he said. “Somalia has the longest coastline in Africa and we have many ports and port operation’s, this is the first major international agreement affecting our largest port and it is important that we set acceptable standards now” Chairman Osman said. The Chairman of the Stevedoring Union Mr. Yusuf Warsame Afrah who was among the people who spoke to the media said unemployment is widespread among the Somali youth and it forced many of them to migrate from the country. Others were forced to engage in piracy and to engage in other crimes primarily due to unemployment. Mr. Afrah also condemned the job cuts planned at the Capital’s port saying “Where do they expect these people to go after they lose their jobs?” adding that the international community needs to understand “maintaining and growing jobs in Somalia is the most effective strategy to combat piracy and terrorism”. In Somalia, unemployment is a major challenge facing a broad cross-section of society but youth have been affected the most severely. The lack of formal sector employment has demoralized many youths including those who are educated. Retrenching thousands of port workers worsens an already challenging environment for Somali jobseekers as the Mogadishu port is one of the largest employers in the country. The Somali Congress of Trade Unions calls upon friends of the working class in parliament to pass the tabled motion calling for an immediate suspension of the contract with the Turkish firm Al Beyrak and an immediate review of the terms of the agreement including the 45% profit sharing provision going to the firm leaving only 55% of port profits for the Somali treasury. We are alarmed that this contract was entered into for a period of twenty years according to the information we have received. The SCTU further calls on parliament to affirm that Somali workers will not be retrenched as a result of this agreement. The SCTU notes that despite repeated calls, our government has not forwarded a draft revised labour law to parliament for debate and review. As a result, we are still operating with a labour law passed in 1972 which is not in compliance withinternational labour standards. Finally, we call on the international labour movement to stand in solidarity with Somali workers who have organised a mass demonstration demanding their rights be respected for the first time in 24 years. Victory for the working class !!Solidarity forever !! Somali Port Workers Union (SOPWU)

Somali Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed met Somali Port Workers Union( SOPWU) and President of SOCOTU Mohamed Osman Haji Ali.

Somali Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed met Somali Port Workers Union( SOPWU) and President of SOCOTU Mohamed Osman Haji Ali. The meeting between Somali Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed, Somali Port Workers Union leaders, and the President of the Somali Congress of Trade Unions reflects the importance placed on addressing the concerns of the Stevedoring Union affiliated with the Somali Congress of Trade Unions. One of the key concerns raised during the meeting was the potential negative impact of the recently signed agreement between the Somali government and the Turkish Company, Al Beyrak Turizm Inset Ticaret A.S., on workers’ rights. Protecting workers’ rights is crucial for ensuring fair and equitable treatment in the labor force. It encompasses various aspects, including safe working conditions, fair wages, reasonable working hours, and the right to form and join trade unions. The Somali Port Workers Union, as a representative body of the port workers, plays a vital role in advocating for these rights and addressing any violations that may occur. The concerns surrounding the agreement with Al Beyrak Turizm Inset Ticaret A.S. likely revolve around potential implications for the rights and well-being of the workers involved. It is important for any agreement or partnership between the government and a foreign company to prioritize the protection of workers’ rights. This includes ensuring that the terms of employment are fair, that workers receive proper compensation for their work, and that they have a voice in decision-making processes that affect their working conditions. The Somali Congress of Trade Unions, as the overarching organization representing various trade unions in Somalia, has a responsibility to safeguard the rights and interests of workers across different sectors. They are likely advocating for transparency in the agreement and urging the government to address any potential negative consequences on workers’ rights promptly.

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