21st August 2025
Sello Motseta
Botswana, like many nations, continues to grapple with the challenges of unemployment, underemployment, informalisation of work, and the rapid transformation brought about by digitalisation and globalisation.
The ability of workers, employers, policymakers, and civil society to engage in constructive dialogue is therefore seen as the foundation of inclusive growth, industrial harmony, and national development.
“These challenges call for renewed commitment to social dialogue, effective legislation, and a shared vision for a just and fair labour market,” said Dithapelo Keorepetse, Speaker of the National Assembly in official opening remarks at 4th ILES Labour Conference.
He said, “Your theme for this year, “Future Ready: Labour Rights and Productivity in the Digital Revolution,” is both timely and urgent. The digital revolution is reshaping industries, changing the way we work, and redefining the employer employee relationship.”
The recently enacted Employment and Labour Relations Act was therefore regarded as a testament to Botswana’s resolve to strengthen labour rights, improve dispute resolution, and enhance protections against workplace discrimination and harassment.
“We must, however, continue to refine our legal frameworks to keep pace with the realities of our time, whether it be the rights of workers in the informal sector, the impact of artificial intelligence on jobs, or the need for gender-responsive labour policies. Parliament has a central role,” said Keorepetse.
Through the Employment and Labour Relations Act, Botswana endeavours to strengthen protections for workers and improved dispute resolution.
“Today, we are gathered at the crossroads of ideas, innovation, and possibility. Conferences are like journeys, we arrive as individuals, but we leave as a community, enriched by the wisdom we share,” said Shandukani Hlabano, Chief Executive Officer of ILES at the opening of the 4th Annual Labour Conference of the Institute for Labour and Employment Studies (ILES).
He said, “We are told by those who came before us that every great change in history began with a conversation. Today, conversations will be sparked, conversations that can shape decisions, inspire action, and create impact far beyond these walls. A labour conference of this nature is where theory and practice converge to inform best practice in the labour market.”
