The Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, paid an official visit to Malabo from July 14 to 16, 2024, in response to an invitation extended by the President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, Mr. Obiang Nguema, during the International Labour Conference in June 2023.
In Malabo, Mr. Houngbo engaged in pivotal meetings with ILO constituents and the UN system coordination team in Equatorial Guinea. He was received in audience by the President of the Republic, who underscored his country's commitment to promoting decent work and and requested enhanced cooperation from the ILO.
© ILO In his meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Houngbo emphasized the importance of social justice and tripartism for achieving sustainable economic development, fundamental pillars of the ILO's work, of which Equatorial Guinea has been a member since January 1981. He also encouraged Equatorial Guinea's participation in the upcoming second Social Summit to be held in Qatar, scheduled for November 4-6, 2025.
The Director-General also met with representatives of workers and employers to discuss the promotion of social dialogue and the need for these groups to better organize themselves to effectively represent the actors of the labour market. The social partners expressed a strong desire for ILO support to strengthen the trade union movement and labour culture in the country.
© ILO During his meeting with the Ministry of Labour, Mr. Houngbo emphasized the significance of accurate labor statistics, rigorous labor inspection, and the establishment of a comprehensive Labour Market Information System. He also highlighted the potential of developing the fisheries value chain and promoting the blue economy, earmarking these as key components of a forthcoming technical cooperation plan with Equatorial Guinea.
Finally, he thanked Equatorial Guinea for their membership of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, noting that in doing so the country is demonstrating its commitment to these values.
