Ramiro Zeca Simbe, a member of staff at Absa Bank Mozambican for over 34 years, today in the position of Sports Coordinator, has led a transformation in banking unionism, not only in Mozambique, but also in the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), as honorary secretary-general of the National Union of Bank Employees (SNEB) and president of the CPLP Banking Union Community. With a modern and international vision of trade unionism, he has shown himself to be prepared to face digital challenges and empower a new generation of leaders.
How do you see the role of trade unionism today, especially in the banking sector?
Trade unionism, especially in the banking sector, remains essential for balancing the interests of workers and employers. Despite technological advances and the transformation in labour relations, the trade union remains vital in ensuring that workers’ rights are not neglected in the face of digitalisation. Our role is clear: to mediate, train and protect workers, always adjusting our strategies to the new realities.
What are the biggest challenges facing trade unionism in the current context of the digitalisation of the banking sector?
The digital transformation puts workers at risk of losing their jobs or drastic changes to their roles. Our priority is to ensure that trade unions keep up with these changes by offering continuous training and support, so that workers are empowered rather than replaced.
In addition, talent retention is another critical issue. Young workers often change jobs quickly, which creates dissatisfaction and instability. We need policies that keep them motivated and committed, including deeper sensitisation about the role and benefits of the union.
How has the union supported workers in this digital transition process?
We have invested in continuous training and professional qualification initiatives. We also promote dialogue with employers so that workers are included in companies’ digital transformation plans. We want to avoid digitalisation leading to job insecurity, but rather opening up new opportunities for professionals to adapt and grow within the sector.
‘Partnerships with unions in other CPLP countries allow us to exchange good practices’
Young people play a key role in the future of trade unionism. How has SNEB worked with the younger generations?
Young people bring a new perspective and energy to trade unionism. At SNEB, we promote training and mentoring programmes to integrate young people, demonstrating that the union is an ally in building sustainable careers and that their active participation strengthens the trade union movement.
Is there a specific effort by SNEB to engage young workers?
Absolutely. The new generation has a different vision and wants quick results, but it takes patience and preparation. We encourage young people to understand that trade unionism is an ongoing struggle and that taking part in it guarantees a more solid future for everyone. It’s important that young people see the union not as a cost, but as a support and defence structure.
With regard to your international experiences, as President of the CPLP Bankers’ Trade Union Community, what kind of partnerships have been established and what are their benefits?
Internationalisation is a fundamental pillar of our work. Partnerships with unions in other CPLP countries allow us to exchange best practices and strengthen the trade union struggle on a wider scale. Through these collaborations, we are able to find innovative solutions to common challenges and amplify our voice in international negotiations.
What’s more, these partnerships bring concrete benefits to our members. They offer exclusive opportunities for training and sharing experiences abroad, which raises the qualifications of our trade unionists. We also have practical advantages, such as health and tourism programmes. For example, through an agreement with the bankers’ union in Portugal, we are able to offer medical assistance to our members when they are in that country. These partnerships not only strengthen the protection of local workers, but also raise the quality of the benefits we offer our members.
Personally, what are your expectations for the future and what would you say is your legacy as a union leader?
I have hope for the future. Despite the challenges, I believe that with youth, new technologies and the strengthening of international partnerships, we are building a solid foundation for an even stronger and more effective trade unionism. The focus should always be on defending workers’ rights, while adapting our strategies to global and local changes.
My aim is to leave a strong, resilient and innovative union, capable of meeting the challenges of an ever-changing future. I hope that future generations will continue to strengthen this legacy of adaptation and justice. Trade unionism is a collective endeavour, where the legacy is built by all those who fight for better working conditions and dignity.