The COTRAF Rwanda ‘The Trade Union Confederation’ and its partners including PSF and FES Rwanda convened in Rubavu District by discussing the best ways to foster a culture of dialogue between employers and employees aimed at promoting the establishment of collective bargaining agreements (CBA).
The Participants noted the necessity of this discussion highlighting that research shows that only 19 out of 200,009 workplace in Rwanda have signed this agreement, a significant barrier to effective labor development.Nzabandora Eric President and Legal Representative of Contraf Rwanda expressed the satisfaction with Rwanda’s progress , emphasizing the importance of dialogue among workers , employers and Government representative to enhance labor standards.
Uwintwali Alexis President and Legal Representative of SNEAR Trade Union in Teac Sector , added that Labor agreements are vital for nationwide benefits noting their success in various locations in Rwanda. He pointed that without signed collective bargaining agreements (CBA), labor were even monitored closely by their employers which lead to unproductive work habits. Furthermore , He criticized employers for not adequately valuing their staff, sometimes resulting in unjustified dismissals. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the positive changed stemming from these agreements , promoting mutual understanding in workplaces.
Joseph Mwumvaneza , Deputy Secretary General of Cotraf Rwanda emphasized the strides made in fostering of social Dialogue to ensure mutual gains for both employees and employers. He stressed that , emphasizing productivity hinges on recognizing employees’ contribution and ensuring fair compensation and job security in their work as the source or result of their hard working in a company.
He said that:”This is where we said that , when employees and employers engage in Mutual dialogue , employers consider both sides and check what is needed , it become clear. Employees progress , receive satisfying wages and gain job security”.He also said that: ”collective bargaining agreements (CBA) employees and employers are abroad and beneficial initiative that have yielded significant results in areas where we have signed these agreements”.