By Mako Jerera
The International Labour Organisation (ILO) Director General, Mr. Gilbert Houngbo, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy call on His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House in Harare.
Mr. Houngbo, who arrived in Zimbabwe on Sunday for a two-day working visit, held meetings with various stakeholders. His inaugural visit aimed to support Zimbabwe’s economic development, foster social progress, and strengthen cooperation.
The ILO, which oversees the formulation of international policies and programmes to improve working conditions, living standards, and employment opportunities, remains focused on its mandate.
During his discussions with President Mnangagwa, Mr. Houngbo highlighted the importance of sustained dialogue.
“What we have insisted on, and I’m very glad the Head of State has insisted on a lot, is the importance of continued dialogue in a very positive manner. It is important to remain focused on the mandate,” he said.
Labour migration and brain drain were key topics of discussion. Mr. Houngbo emphasized the importance of balancing the interests of Zimbabwe, its diaspora, and host countries.
“It’s important to establish a balanced way in terms of brain drain. I don’t think that we should look at it in such a way that developed countries are trying to take away; it’s a matter of what is our interest, what is the interest of Zimbabwe and what is the interest of the country of destination and how do you come to a balancing act. Let’s keep in mind that Zimbabwe benefitted from US$2 billion in remittances coming from the diaspora through the labour migrants,” he stated.
He further stressed the need for a “circular labour migration” model to address the brain drain while ensuring mutual benefits for all parties involved.
“On the flip side, it’s important to deal with the issue of brain drain and we have historically been saying that brain power is the comparative advantage of Zimbabwe and making sure we don’t end up by brain drain. What we all agree on is the importance of having a circular labor migration rather than a brain drain, so the issue is an important one. Other countries, including Zimbabwe, have a need of the brain power. By the same token, we should not look at it as a negative situation as people always move. How do we ensure there is a win-win situation and we believe that through bilateral talks involving the trade unions, involving employer organisations, is the way forward,” he added.
The ILO, with its membership of 187 states, operates on a tripartite structure that gives equal voice to workers, employers, and governments, ensuring a balanced approach to labour issues globally.
Mr. Houngbo’s visit underscores the organisation’s commitment to fostering cooperation and addressing critical labour challenges in Zimbabwe and beyond.
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