In Abidjan, the dockworkers’ unions have united to voice their frustrations regarding the stagnant implementation of the docker’s status decree. This gathering, held in the Port Autonomous Hall on February 23, 2026, highlighted serious grievances that have persisted over seven years.
Ivorian Dockers Demand Action on Stagnant Status
The unions, represented by spokesperson Guigréhi Aklégbou Pierre, expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of enforcement of decree n°2019-102, established on January 30, 2019. This decree aimed to improve the working conditions of dockers but remains largely unimplemented, even after nearly six years since its theoretical activation.
Historical Reforms and Current Grievances
While the unions acknowledge the historical reform contributions from President Alassane Ouattara and the Ministry of Transport, they assert that these efforts have not translated into tangible benefits.
- Formation of a technical committee and facilitation commission.
- A circular issued in January 2021 encouraging the implementation of the decree.
- Reforms to the statuses of the ports in Abidjan and San Pedro.
Despite these initiatives, the unions claim that the decree remains ineffective, with several critical violations persisting:
- Failure to implement the concession agreement for docker labor management.
- No establishment of the solidarity fund required by Article 40 of the status.
- Lack of the monitoring commission for dockworkers’ activities.
- Inadequate health coverage, violating regulatory provisions.
- Non-adherence to the exclusive use of docker labor for handling operations.
- Delays in compensatory payments and bonuses.
- Obstruction of professional decorations and removal of benefits without discussion.
- Suspension of many workers outside legal boundaries.
Ongoing Frustrations and Calls for Unity
The unions highlighted their disappointment over the expiration of the collective agreement made on May 9, 2022. They noted that new negotiations, sought in early 2025, have yet to commence.
“Dockworkers are mobilized and deeply frustrated. They do not wish to celebrate International Workers’ Day in May 2026 with unresolved demands from the past seven years,” warned Aklégbou.
Solidarity Fund Management and Union Dynamics
A significant topic of discussion involved the establishment of a unique mutual fund for dockers. In December 2024, during a seminar in Grand-Bassam hosted by the Ministry of Transport, it was recommended that existing mutuals merge into a unified entity.
However, a recent social media announcement revealed that another union, without final consensus, had established a mutual fund approved by its affiliates. This move was condemned as a “disregard for the majority” by the coalitions of unions, who seek 42 of the 62 delegate positions in negotiations.
While they do not oppose an independent mutual fund for social projects, they reject any partisan control over the solidarity fund, asserting it as a collective right. Their demand remains clear: “A mutual fund is acceptable, but full employment comes first.”
The Need for Urgent Dialogue
The unions call upon handling employers and their associations to initiate meaningful discussions to prevent escalating tensions in the ports of Abidjan and San Pedro. They remain committed to a “responsible, participatory, and intelligent” approach to unionism while awaiting concrete advancements.
Absent a swift and organized dialogue, the situation in Ivorian ports may deteriorate as significant social dates loom ahead.
