The flag of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan was raised for the first time to the highest point in Africa — the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 metres).
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The symbolic ascent was undertaken by Kairat Aibossynov, Adviser to the Chairman of the FTURK.
For the trade union movement, this became a remarkable event held as part of the nationwide trade union campaign “Strong Trade Unions – A Strong Voice for the Working Person” and a sign of respect for millions of working people in Kazakhstan.
Kairat Aibossynov led a group of 21 citizens of Kazakhstan, the majority of whom are trade union members. The journey to the summit took five days, with another two days required for the descent. According to the participants, the route proved to be a serious test of endurance, mutual support and strength of character.
The flag raised at the summit symbolises the main goal of the Federation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan — to promote dignified treatment of working people, protect workers’ rights and strengthen the principles of social justice. Just as reaching the summit requires endurance, strength of spirit and perseverance, trade union work is a daily journey towards ensuring that every person’s work is properly valued and protected.
“Raising the flag of the Federation of Trade Unions of Kazakhstan to the summit of Kilimanjaro, throughout the seven-day journey I thought about the millions of Kazakhstanis who, through their work, create the present and future of our country. This flag is a symbol of respect for every working person. We want their status, authority and significance in society to rise as high as our flag has risen today,” said Kairat Aibossynov.
According to him, the ascent was also a reminder that the journey towards great goals always begins with the first step.
“Every summit begins with the first step. By raising the flag of our Federation of Trade Unions on Kilimanjaro, we wanted to show that working people deserve the highest peaks — respect, fair pay, safe working conditions and public recognition. We have also decided to share our experience. The route we completed will be offered to all our compatriots who wish to conquer Kilimanjaro. I am confident that this summit will become attainable for many Kazakhstanis,” Kairat Aibossynov emphasised.
The ascent of Kilimanjaro required serious physical preparation, endurance and strength of character. These qualities are demonstrated every day by millions of workers — miners, metallurgists, teachers, doctors, builders, energy workers, agricultural workers and representatives of dozens of other professions whose work contributes to the development of Kazakhstan.
The project will continue. Next year, an ascent to Everest Base Camp is planned, which will become another symbolic action in support of working people and the promotion of an active lifestyle among trade union members not only in Kazakhstan, but around the world.
FTURK Trade Union Communications Centre