The Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, will undertake an official mission to Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger from 5 to 15 April 2026, visiting member countries of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).
This visit forms part of a process of enhanced dialogue and cooperation, in support of the efforts of governments and social partners to promote decent work, strengthen the resilience of communities and support inclusive and sustainable development pathways.
In Mali, the Director-General will meet with national authorities and social partners to discuss priorities regarding employment and social dialogue. He will attend the inauguration of a labour-intensive infrastructure project (HIMO), an ILO initiative that contributes to job creation and local development.
This mission in the AES reflects our commitment to continuing to work constructively alongside the countries in the region.
Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO
In Burkina Faso, the visit will feature discussions with the authorities, social partners and regional institutions on employment and vocational training policies. The Director-General will take part in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ILO and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), aimed at strengthening regional cooperation in support of decent work.
In Niger, the focus will be on initiatives promoting employment and skills development. The Director-General will visit the Leather and Hides Centre, supported by the ILO through the RECOMPENSE project, which promotes vocational training and access to sustainable economic opportunities.
In all three countries, Mr. Houngbo will meet with Heads of State, as well as representatives of employers' and workers' organisations, United Nations country teams and technical and financial partners, in a spirit of consultation and complementarity.
During these discussions with the highest authorities in these countries, the creation of decent and productive jobs will be at the heart of the talks.
"Decent work is a key lever for building resilience, supporting communities and fostering sustainable development. This mission to the AES region reflects our commitment to continuing a constructive engagement alongside the countries in the region," explains Mr. Houngbo.
