Empowering Zambia’s Workforce

.... Addressing Challenges and Ensuring Fair Treatment

By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia- February 21, 2025 - The government has reaffirmed its commitment to job creation, wage adjustments, and labor rights, asserting that Zambia’s employment sector is on a growth trajectory poised for further expansion.

Brenda Tambatamba, the Minister of Labour and Social Security, spoke at the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) Biannual General Conference in Lusaka, highlighting the revival of industries and ongoing labor reforms aimed at improving working conditions and economic stability.

"Zambia’s job market is expanding with the revival of key industries. The commissioning of Shaft 28 and other mining operations in November 2024 has restored employment opportunities, and we anticipate even more growth in the coming years," Tambatamba stated.

She emphasized that historically, Zambia’s mining discussions focused on a few major operations in the Copperbelt and North-Western Province.

However, with new mines under development, employment prospects are increasing, thereby strengthening the country’s economic foundation.

The minister outlined the government’s efforts to enhance wages across various sectors, including recent adjustments for transport workers.

"We have consistently adjusted wages over the past two years to ensure fair compensation for workers. The transport sector, which plays a critical role in economic development, has particularly benefited from these interventions," she noted.

Tambatamba acknowledged the agriculture sector’s contribution to food security and export revenue generation, as well as the healthcare sector’s role in improving public service delivery.

She reiterated the government’s focus on ensuring that workers receive fair remuneration and social protection.

Emphasizing the autonomy of trade unions, she stated, "Unlike in the past, unions are now conducting their elective conferences without government interference.

No union leader has been forced into retirement under the pretext of ‘national interest’—a practice that is not part of our government’s DNA."

She praised the labor movement for its role in advancing workers' rights and called for continued collaboration to sustain economic growth.

"Let us continue working together in unity and dedication to developing our nation productively. With the right policies, Zambia’s labor sector will continue to thrive beyond 2025," she concluded.

Blakes Mulala, President of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU), raised concerns over the increasing fragmentation of trade unions in the country, warning that the rise of "one-man unions" is weakening the collective power of workers.

He criticized the government for allowing the registration of too many small unions, which he believes undermines the unity and effectiveness of the broader labor movement.

Mulala expressed gratitude for being elected as president and acknowledged the support of the union members.

He reflected on the two years since the last election and the progress made under his leadership. He highlighted the sacrifices of past workers, particularly the 11 miners who died in 1935, as a source of inspiration for the ongoing struggle for workers' rights.

He emphasized that a strong and united trade union movement is essential for protecting workers' rights, especially in a country like Zambia, where economic instability poses significant challenges.

Mulala highlighted several issues affecting workers, including the casualization of labor, where workers are employed on temporary contracts without job security or benefits.

He raised concerns over delayed payments, particularly in the private security sector, where some workers go months without being paid.

He condemned employers for violating labor laws and called on the government to enforce these laws to ensure that workers' rights are respected.

Additionally, Mulala addressed illegal mining activities, urging the government to transform them into a legal and regulated industry, providing training and support to miners, and ensuring that the country benefits from its mineral wealth through taxation.

He commended the government for reopening closed mines and taking steps to revive the mining sector, which he believes will contribute to economic growth.

Mulala stressed the importance of unity among trade unions and called on the government to work with unions as social partners.

He commended the government for promoting good governance and social justice but urged further action to uphold the rule of law and protect workers' rights.

He warned that without good governance and respect for the rule of law, workers' rights would continue to be violated, and economic growth would be hindered.

Mulala concluded by reiterating the need for unity among trade unions and the importance of addressing the challenges facing workers.

He called on the government to take decisive action to regulate illegal mining, enforce labor laws, and ensure fair treatment of workers, asserting that the labor movement would continue to fight for workers' rights and economic stability.