On July 25, 2025, the Secretary General of the Rwanda Extractive Industry Workers Union (REWU), Eng. Mutsindashyaka Andre, gave a valuable presentation on “Decent Work” at an event organized by the Salesians of Don Bosco in Rwanda, in collaboration with Don Bosco Tech Africa. The event aimed to bring together stakeholders from various occupations, including representatives of companies, TVET educators, Salesian Staff and their Management, media among others.
Eng. Mutsindashyaka reaffirmed REWU’s unwavering commitment to decent work and worker empowerment at this vital national dialogue held today in Kigali. The forum served as a critical platform for REWU to advocate for fair labor practices across all industries.
The diverse audience underscored the widespread recognition of the importance of decent work and the collective responsibility to improve labor conditions across Rwanda.
Drawing on the framework of the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP), aligned with the International Labour Organization (ILO)’s agenda, the Secretary General emphasized REWU’s core priorities: employment promotion, social protection, social dialogue, and rights at work.
“REWU is dedicated to ensuring that all workers, particularly those in the extractive industry, have access to full, productive, and freely chosen employment,” stated Secretary General Mutsindashyaka. “This requires a concerted effort to enhance skills, promote safe working conditions, and ensure fair compensation for the demanding labor our members perform.”
Mutsindashyaka also highlighted the crucial role of social dialogue in securing worker rights. “REWU believes that open and constructive dialogue between workers, employers, and the government is essential for addressing the challenges facing the extractive industry and ensuring that workers’ voices are heard,” he emphasized.
The Secretary General acknowledged the progress made in Rwanda’s social protection system but stressed the need for continued efforts to extend coverage to all workers, particularly those in the informal sector. He reiterated REWU’s commitment to advocating for policies that protect workers’ rights, promote safe working conditions, production increment, and ensure access to essential services such as healthcare and social security.
“REWU extends its gratitude to the Salesians of Don Bosco and Don Bosco Tech Africa for organizing this important dialogue and providing a valuable platform to discuss decent work,” concluded Secretary General Mutsindashyaka. “We look forward to continuing to collaborate more to build a more just and equitable labor landscape for all Rwandan workers.”
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