** Social trade unionism and advances: a new step for the Congolese agency for major works **
On February 28, an awareness session took place in Kinshasa, on the initiative of the union delegation of the Congolese Grands Works Agency (ACGT). This highlight has seen agents and executives of this public service come together to discuss the recent collective agreement, a promising document which transforms the landscape of work within the ACGT. Signed in December 2022, this strategic text not only initiates the company but also redefined the dynamics between the employer and the employees.
### a difficult economic context
The importance of such an agreement cannot be underestimated, especially in a country like the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the economic challenges are numerous. ACGT, often perceived as a key player in national infrastructure development, has to face increasing expectations on the part of agents, who aspire to worthy working conditions and recognition of their role in the construction of a nation. The collective agreement, by consolidating social achievements, represents a significant advance, but it is also the symptom of an urgent need for reform in terms of labor relations.
### A crucial popularization
During this informative session, the president of the union delegation emphasized the multiple advantages offered by the Convention. This document addresses crucial themes such as wages, paid holidays and respective rights, thus establishing a reference framework for all ACGT agents. By taking measures to popularize this convention at both provincial and national levels, the union does not only inform; It also raises awareness of the importance of unity and solidarity among workers, a message all the more vital in a context where the voices of agents can easily be stifled.
### The implications of the collective agreement
The impact of such a convention far exceeds the simple short -term benefits for workers. Studies show that in systems where collective agreements are in place, we observe better satisfaction at work and a reduction in turnover, which results in increased productivity. For example, an analysis of the health and education sectors in sub -Saharan Africa revealed that employers respecting collective agreements had rates of absenteeism by 15 % to those of employers not doing so.
### The promise of the Managing Director
The Director General of ACGT, engineer Nico Nzau, made a promise when the agreement signed: the latter would guide its decisions in the management of staff. In a world where transparency and mutual understanding are essential, the commitment of leaders to respect this agreement could increase the confidence of agents towards management. In reality, the success of ACGT in the execution of its infrastructure projects will largely depend on the motivation of its teams.
### Challenges and prospects for the future
However, it would be naive to ignore the challenges that remain to be overcome. The effective application of this agreement will depend on the political will of management and the mechanisms in place to monitor its respect. Considering the fluctuating nature of the Congolese socio-economic context, it will be essential to ensure constant vigilance in the face of any drifts and the necessary update of the provisions according to changes in the workplace.
In short, ACGT’s commitment to this collective agreement may well mark a turning point in the form of professional relations in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This is a first step towards recognition of workers’ rights, but also an appeal to responsibility for both employees and for managers. At a time when voices are raised in civil society for better governance, the example of ACGT could resonate beyond its walls, inspiring other sectors to follow this promising path towards a more equitable and social future.
Thus, the eyes are riveted on ACGT, not only for its ability to carry out major work, but also for its role as a model of social progress in a country where these advances are of crucial importance.