It is with deep sadness that we must inform you of the untimely death of the first and former PSI Regional Secretary for Africa & Arab Countries, Têko Kpodar on the 22nd September, aged 79, following a brief illness.

Têko led the Region for many years and retired in 2009 after the 11th Africa & Arab Countries Regional Conference (AFRECON), which was held in November 2008, in Hammamet (Tunisia).

His 26-year career saw him hold successive positions as Sub-Regional Secretary for French-speaking Africa and then Regional Secretary for Africa & Arab Countries.

Têko was a trade unionist committed to the Continental cause. He played a key role in obtaining approval for the establishment of PSI in Togo and officially opened the regional office in 1998, in accordance with the decision to regionalize PSI, which was approved at the Yokohama Congress in 1997.

Since joining PSI, this dynamic and visionary leader steered the organisation through the many storms that have shaken the African trade union movement. He successfully recruited numerous unions from all sectors across Africa and the MENA region, considerably contributing to PSI's growth as an organisation. The many missions he undertook reflect his dynamism and unwavering dedication to serving the rights of workers.

Têko was also a staunch supporter of PSI's South African affiliates, with whom he worked closely to end apartheid. It would be impossible to list everything Têko achieved during his trade union career.

Today, the whole of Africa and MENA mourns his passing, from public service workers and trade unionists to those who had the privilege of working alongside him over the years.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones for this tragic loss. His name will remain etched in the memory of the African trade union family for many years to come.