The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-AFRICA www.ituc-africa.org), representing over 18 million working men and women across Africa, extends its deepest condolences and unwavering solidarity to the workers, communities, and people of Canada following the recent shootings that have claimed innocent lives and brought profound grief to families, workplaces, and communities.
We mourn with you during this painful moment. The loss of lives resulting from violent acts deeply wounds the social fabric of society and leaves lasting scars on families and communities. African workers stand in solidarity with the victims, their loved ones, and all those affected by these tragic events.
ITUC-Africa notes with serious concern the troubling rise in violent crimes in different parts of the world. Such violence undermines peace, safety, and human dignity — conditions essential for workers and societies to thrive. As African workers, news of such tragedies is deeply disturbing and reminds us that violence anywhere threatens peace everywhere.
We also acknowledge and commend the Government of Canada for its continued commitment to protecting the lives and security of its people and for its response to these tragic incidents. The protection of human life must remain the foremost responsibility of every government. Across the world, including in parts of Africa, this principle must be strengthened so that every life is valued, safeguarded, and treated with dignity.
In this moment of grief, we reaffirm our collective commitment to international workers’ solidarity. African workers stand shoulder to shoulder with Canadian workers, communities, and institutions in the shared resolve to address the root causes of violence, strengthen peaceful societies, and uphold human dignity.
Please accept our profound condolences and assurances of our enduring solidarity.
Akhator Joel Odigie
General Secretary
ITUC-AFRICA
Lomé, Togo