Lusaka, Zambia — October 8, 2025. Fundación Avina participated in the Africa Business and Human Rights Forum (ABHRF), contributing to a vital discussion on the rights and recognition of informal and digital workers across the continent. The event brought together advocates, workers, and experts to examine key issues such as labor exploitation, digital rights, corporate accountability, and the need for inclusive policy-making.

Centering Worker Voices in Human Rights Due Diligence

Representing Avina in Africa, Amadou Mbodj moderated a powerful session focused on integrating worker voices into human rights due diligence processes. The panel featured:

• Lefa Mononga, Chairperson of the South African Waste Pickers Association (SAWPA)
• James Oyange, former TikTok content moderator, digital rights advocate, and member of the African Content Moderators Union (ACMU)
• Joseph Byomuhangi, Co-Chair of the African Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA)

SAWPA and ACMU are key allies under the Democracy at Work Fund Initiative, a collaborative fund supporting workers’ organizations leading efforts at the intersection of labor rights, democracy, and a just transition.

Each panelist shared firsthand experiences of exploitation and marginalization, underscoring the importance of worker participation in shaping responsible business conduct. The discussion emphasized how informal and digital workers are often excluded from decision-making processes that directly affect their livelihoods.

Waste Pickers: Environmental Stewards Without Recognition

Lefa Mononga highlighted the crucial role of waste pickers in South Africa’s recycling economy, particularly in processing PET bottles and other recyclable materials. Despite their significant environmental contributions, waste pickers continue to face systemic neglect, lack of formal recognition, and threats from criminal cartels at landfill sites.

Lefa called for stronger legislation, meaningful inclusion in policy development, and protection against harmful incineration projects that endanger both livelihoods and climate goals.

Content Moderators: Invisible Guardians of the Digital Space

James Oyange shared his experience as one of the first TikTok content moderators in Sub-Saharan Africa, revealing the psychological toll of reviewing harmful content, deceptive recruitment practices targeting migrant workers, and the absence of mental health support.

He and other panelists criticized the outsourcing model used by major tech companies, which often distances corporate accountability while perpetuating exploitative labor conditions.

Formed in May 2023, the African Content Moderators Union (ACMU) continues to face challenges in obtaining formal recognition. James emphasized the need for solidarity, legal reform, and mental health advocacy to protect digital workers. The panel also drew attention to the vulnerability of migrant workers in the tech industry, noting that inadequate documentation and misleading job descriptions can expose them to severe risks, including trafficking.

Advocacy and Collaboration: A Path Forward

The forum concluded with a shared commitment to advancing labor protections and equity across emerging and informal sectors. Participants agreed on key actions, including:

• Advocating for the formal recognition of waste pickers in South African policy.
• Supporting unionization among digital workers.
• Documenting labor exploitation through initiatives such as the Data Workers Inquiry.
• Engaging government bodies to close legislative gaps.
• Promoting gender equity in leadership within informal worker organizations. 

Fundación Avina’s participation in the Africa Business and Human Rights Forum reaffirmed its dedication to amplifying marginalized voices and promoting inclusive, rights-based approaches to labor and business. Avina remains committed to championing grassroots movements, pushing for policy reforms, and fostering cross-sector collaboration to ensure that all workers are treated with dignity and justice.