The interconnected challenges of protracted crises, encompassing natural disasters, economic instability, and social vulnerability, demand a multifaceted approach centered on employment-focused strategies. The United Nations and the International Labour Organisation, during a side event at the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), advocated for a paradigm shift towards resilience-building through decent work, skills development, and local capacity strengthening. This approach emphasizes proactive measures to not only mitigate the immediate impact of crises but also address the underlying structural weaknesses that perpetuate instability in African communities. Recognizing that mere restoration of pre-crisis conditions is insufficient, the focus lies in creating diversified and resilient income sources, fostering long-term development, and empowering communities to sustainably navigate future challenges.

The core premise of this strategy lies in the recognition that sustainable resilience hinges on inclusive labour markets and investment in local capacity. This entails prioritizing employment-intensive approaches that generate jobs while simultaneously contributing to development outcomes. Such approaches not only provide immediate relief and economic opportunities but also empower communities by equipping them with valuable skills and resources that enhance their ability to cope with and recover from future shocks. This is in line with the proactive approach advocated by the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which emphasizes disaster prevention and resilience-building rather than solely focusing on reactive post-disaster recovery. By integrating employment generation and skills development into disaster risk reduction and recovery strategies, African nations can build more resilient communities capable of weathering future crises.

Japan’s experience in disaster preparedness and recovery provided valuable insights into the importance of long-term investment in infrastructure and human capital. Ambassador Nobuaru Imanishi of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the crucial role of continuous investment in infrastructure, emphasizing that it not only enhances physical resilience but also cultivates knowledge and expertise within the local workforce. This accumulated expertise becomes invaluable during recovery efforts, enabling swift and effective responses to future disasters. The Japanese model highlights the synergistic relationship between physical infrastructure development and human capital development, demonstrating how investments in both can create a virtuous cycle of resilience.

Furthermore, the importance of social dialogue and tripartite cooperation between governments, employers, and workers was highlighted as crucial for effective crisis response and resilience building. Representatives from the Japan Business Federation and the Japanese Trade Union Confederation shared valuable insights into business continuity plans, volunteer mobilization, and protection of vulnerable groups during crises. These examples demonstrate the power of collaborative efforts in strengthening community resilience, ensuring that businesses can continue operating, vulnerable populations are protected, and recovery efforts are coordinated effectively. This collaborative approach recognizes the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in building resilient communities, fostering a sense of collective ownership and promoting efficient resource allocation during times of crisis.

The focus on local capacity building emphasizes empowering African communities to become agents of their own development and resilience. ILO Regional Director for Africa, Fanfan Rwanyindo, emphasized the transformative potential of employment-intensive projects, noting that they not only generate immediate employment but also equip communities with new skills, paving the way for sustainable livelihoods and pathways out of dependence on public employment programs. This approach recognizes that building resilience requires empowering individuals and communities with the capabilities and resources to adapt to changing circumstances and create sustainable economic opportunities for themselves. By investing in local capacity, African nations can foster self-reliance and reduce dependence on external aid, creating a more sustainable path towards long-term development.

Several African initiatives showcased during the event demonstrate the practical application of these principles, ranging from climate-resilient agriculture and local road construction projects to skills training programs for marginalized groups. These initiatives exemplify the potential of employment-focused strategies to address a wide range of challenges related to climate change, infrastructure development, and social inclusion. Scaling up these successful initiatives is crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and realizing the commitments made under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction. The discussions at TICAD, a platform established by the Japanese government to promote African ownership and international partnerships in sustainable development, underscored the centrality of decent work, skills development, and social protection in Africa’s resilience and long-term development strategy. By prioritizing these elements, African nations can build more resilient communities, create sustainable livelihoods, and foster a more equitable and prosperous future.

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