Adeladius Makwega – Mbagala
May 1st each year, around the world, is Workers’ Day—a day marked by uniforms, parades, meetings, the presentation of statements, long speeches, and finally awards for outstanding workers. At the same time, labor unions ensure their members attend these events, often providing allowances; if a member fails to participate, they do not receive the allowance. Usually, preparations begin in the last week of April, when branch secretaries and treasurers of labor unions become busy distributing uniforms and withdrawing money from banks in readiness for the event.
While all this is happening, many workers are withdrawing from these unions, seeing them as no longer meaningful. In the past, there were inspiring stories of how workers fought for their rights, but today there are no vivid, ongoing narratives showing that these rights are still being actively defended with the same commitment.
Labor unions are increasingly viewed as part of institutional administration. Workers see their leaders as opportunists—people who consume members’ contributions for personal gain.
So the question today, as workers celebrate their day: Is there still any real importance in continuing to celebrate Workers’ Day globally?
This is an important question. In the past, labor unions worked closely with political parties that were fighting for independence and workers’ rights. Today, however, unions tend to align closely with ruling parties. That is the reality. Have workers’ rights truly been secured? The answer is no—problems remain the same: low wages, poor working conditions, and many others.
What does Mwanakwetu say today?
Mwanakwetu believes that it is now important to openly debate whether these celebrations are still necessary—and even to question whether labor unions themselves are still needed. If such a discussion takes place, unions may be forced to evaluate their relevance and possibly reform, or even agree to be dissolved.
There is a defense often made: when a worker has a case in mediation councils, labor courts, or appellate courts, unions will defend them from start to finish using union funds. This is true. But is that the only role of labor unions worldwide? The answer is no. Other responsibilities have been neglected for a long time—we rarely hear unions speaking out about broader social challenges.
Today, Mwanakwetu reflects on this issue as if he were naïve—perhaps that naivety can encourage all of us to think more deeply. He himself has been a member of the Teachers’ Union (CWT), later a member of RAAWU, served as a branch secretary in CWT, and as a branch chairman of RAAWU at TBC nationwide, and has also held leadership roles in several institutions.
So, should we lay down our tools? No. Instead, young people (my children) should not invest their energy in labor unions but rather in political parties—ensuring they elect good leaders. Do not just choose a party; choose a leader you believe is capable of serving society. Otherwise, the world will not become a better place. After all, it may be better for workers to keep the money deducted from their salaries and use it for their children’s needs.
Mwanakwetu, are you there? Remember:
“For now, there is no need to celebrate Workers’ Day.”
Have a nice day.
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