The regional training and peer-to-peer knowledge-sharing event on labour migration statistics occurred from October 21 to 25, 2024, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Organised by the ILO Better Regional Migration Management (BRMM) programme, funded by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the workshop brought together 39 participants from seven EHoA countries and regional organisations.

The event aimed to address significant gaps in labour migration statistics across EHoA and strengthen institutional capacities for data collection, analysis, and dissemination. Labour migration is a critical component of economic and social development. As demographic shifts and global economic pressures drive increased mobility, reliable data is essential to craft effective migration policies that protect rights, promote fair recruitment, and strengthen economic growth.

However, many countries in the EHoA lack comprehensive and consistent labour migration statistics, leading to challenges in understanding migration trends and their impact on labour markets. In light of this, the training sought to equip participants with the tools and knowledge to bridge these gaps and align regional efforts with international standards. 

The opening session set the stage for a week of collaborative learning. Representatives from the ILO, Tanzanian government, and regional organisations underscored the importance of evidence-based policymaking in addressing migration challenges. They highlighted how demographic pressures, economic inequality, and climate change drive migration patterns, requiring responses informed by accurate and disaggregated data. Participants representing ministries, national statistical offices, trade unions, and regional bodies were encouraged to share their perspectives and experiences to enrich the training sessions. 

Participants at the training engaged with critical topics in labour migration governance, focusing on ICLS guidelines to standardise data collection and analysis, the impact of fair recruitment costs on migrant workers, and the importance of aligning practices with Sustainable Development Goal indicator 10.7.1. Sessions on global estimates and the ILO-AU questionnaire highlighted methodologies for understanding labour migration trends and enhancing regional collaboration.

Discussions addressed challenges in using censuses, surveys, and administrative records, proposing strategies like integrating migration modules, harmonising methodologies, and fostering inter-agency cooperation. The role of Labour Market Information Systems was emphasised to improve data accessibility and policy relevance, with case studies and best practices providing actionable insights. Practical exercises reinforced these concepts, enabling participants to collaboratively address data gaps, share experiences, and apply learned strategies effectively. 

The workshop concluded with a plenary session where participants reflected on the week’s discussions and identified priorities for improving regional labour migration statistics. They stressed the need for harmonised methodologies, enhanced use of administrative data, and targeted capacity-building initiatives. The importance of strengthening regional collaboration through partnerships with organisations like the African Union and Regional Economic Communities was also highlighted. 

The outcomes of the training were evident in the feedback from participants. Pre- and post-training assessments showed increased knowledge, particularly in understanding global estimates and fair recruitment costs. Participants expressed appreciation for the participatory nature of the sessions and the opportunity to learn from peers. Many emphasised the value of continued knowledge-sharing and recommended regular regional workshops to sustain momentum and build on progress. ILO