Strengthening ELMIS key to promote decent jobs, advance social skills: MoLS

Addis Ababa, December 4, 2023 (FBC) – In the coming years, strengthening the Ethiopian Labor Market Information System (ELMIS) will be crucial to promote the decent work agenda and advance social justice for all Ethiopians, according to Muferihat Kamil, Minister of Labor and Skills.

Ms. Muferihat said that while delivering a presentation for panel discussion regarding Labour Administration Reform in Ethiopia – A Journey from Past to Present and Vision for the Future at the celebration of the centenary of Ethiopia’s membership in the International Labor Organization (ILO). The occasion is being celebrated in Addis Ababa from 4 to 6 December with National Labor Conference (NLC).

Marking Ethiopia’s century-long membership with the UN agency, the National Labour Conference is being held under the theme: “Advancing Social Justice though Social Dialogue and Enhanced Productivity.”

Ms. Muferihat underscored that the synergy between employers and workers is very important in meliorating the country’s work environment and national productivity. In that regard, the conference will help Ethiopia showcase its commitment on public consultations, ensuring sustainable industrial peace and increasing productivity, the Minister noted.

She said, “The age-long partnership and cooperation Ethiopia shared with ILO will be strengthened and the history that our fathers passed on to us through social dialogue and peaceful industrial relations for 100 years will be the cornerstone on which we will further strengthen and pass on a better Ethiopia to the next generation.”

Moreover, Muferihat confirmed that preparations are in progress to hold a nationwide social consultation forum.

Speaking at the opening of the Conference, Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia, applauded ILO for its attribute to the history, multilateralism, and decent work programme. According to him, the UN Cooperation Framework will continue to register economic growth.

Ramiz Alakbarov reiterated that the UN is committed to creating at least 3 million jobs for Ethiopians.

For his part, Dawit Moges, First Vice President, Confederation of Ethiopian Employers Association said: “When social dialogue becomes a culture at workplace and increase productivity, it enables us to advance social justice.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Kassahun Follo, President of CETU appreciated ILO for working with tripartite partners in setting international labour standards, encouraging decent work, ensuring social protection, and enhancing labour relations.

For her part, ILO Regional Director for Africa, Fanfan Rwanyindo, said: “As we celebrate Ethiopia’s 100th Anniversary of ILO membership and NLC2023, we reflect not just on history, but also on partnerships that have shaped the landscape of decent work and social justice”

The event is organized by ILO, in collaboration with its tripartite partners such as the Ministry of Labor and Skills, Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU), and Confederation of Ethiopian Employers Association (CEEA).

At the opening of the National Labor Conference, ILO, MoLS, CETU, and CEEA pledged their commitment to advancing Social Justice through Social Dialogue and Enhanced Productivity for the next 100 years in Ethiopia.