President Dr Masisi made this remarks recently when he officiated at the 43rd Annual Delegates Conference of Manual Workers Union

His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi says it is a joint responsibility to ensure that the interests of the workers and employers are protected through the formulation of laws that are aligned with International Standards.

President Dr Masisi made this remarks recently when he officiated at the 43rd Annual Delegates Conference of Manual Workers Union where he stated that he is aware that the tripartite has been working on the amendment of labour laws.

He also noted that he was reliably informed that the drafting of the proposed Employment and Labour Relations Bill is ongoing and will, as a matter of priority, be tabled before the July 2023 Parliament Session. President Dr Masisi further declared that the Bill carries what is good for the country as it is a product of the tripartite, parties with vested interests in this matter.

Moreover the President said pursuant to Government’s agenda of compliance to International Labour Standards, Botswana recently ratified Convention No. 81 and 129 on Labour Inspection and Labour Inspection in the Agricultural Sector respectively, which is a clear demonstration of Botswana’s commitment towards the protection of workers’ rights, and strengthening of the labour administration.

Other speakers who graced the occasion like President of Botswana Public Employee’s Union Masego Mogwera thanked President Masisi for the good he has done for the workers of this country and also appealed to the President to ensure that the Bargaining Council is resuscitated as was promised by the President when he assumed office. Mogwera said some officer deployed in government structures seem to be a stumbling block when it comes to implementing President Dr Masisi’s great initiatives .

She appealed to the President to discipline them for failing to comply with what Government intends for the workers . The conference ended on Saturday with election of new national executives of the union who are believed will take forth the Agenda of the union. The counting of votes took to Sunday morning. The union is expected to release an official communication updating their members how the conference transpired.