12/06/2026
LABOUR CONFERENCE TARGETS NEW LAW IMPLEMENTATION SUCCESS
The 5th Annual Labour Conference 2026 has officially been launched and will be held from 30 to 31 July 2026 under the theme “Turning Law into Practice: Implementing the Employment and Labour Relations Act in a Digital and Transforming Economy.” The event is convened by the Institute of Labour and Employment Studies (ILES) in partnership with social partners. It aims to translate the new labour law into practical workplace reforms in response to rapid digital transformation.
ILES Chief Executive Officer Mr. Shandukani Hlabano said the launch marks a milestone as the institute celebrates five years of sustained dialogue on labour matters. He noted that the timing is significant as Botswana prepares for the implementation of the new Employment and Labour Relations Act. “We have been running for the past five years, and this is a significant achievement because sustaining such an initiative shows it is worthwhile and impactful. This year is particularly important because it aligns with the implementation of the new Employment and Labour Relations Act, which comes into effect on 1st July. We have already been training stakeholders across the public and private sectors on this law, and this launch further affirms our readiness for its full implementation,” he said.
Hlabano explained that the conference will be structured around key thematic areas drawn from the Act, including workplace rights, labour administration, collective bargaining, and the future of work in a digital economy. He said participation will include government, Business Botswana, trade unions, and the media as “friends of ILES,” with equal representation to strengthen dialogue and inclusivity.
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