Zambia Anchors SASK Africa Plan



Country emerges largest beneficiary as Finland backs workers’ rights and inclusion drive

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (21-4-2026) -- Zambia has emerged as the largest programme country for the Finnish Trade Union Solidarity Centre (SASK) in Africa, as Finland launched a new €10 million programme aimed at strengthening workers’ rights, promoting decent work, and advancing disability inclusion across 14 countries.

The Embassy of Finland in Zambia launched the SASK 2026–2029 Programme on April 20, 2026, at Mikango Hotel in Lusaka, with support directed at strengthening trade unions, improving social dialogue, and expanding inclusive employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Embassy Advisor Elizabeth Ndhlovu said the programme will focus on skills training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship support for persons with disabilities in Zambia, while also strengthening trade unions’ capacity to advocate for safer working conditions in sectors such as mining and construction.

She said the initiative reflects Finland’s commitment to equality, human rights, and inclusive development, and will be implemented through 26 projects across 14 countries.

SASK Specialist Anna Perttula said Zambia’s position as the largest programme country reflects its strategic importance in advancing labour rights and sectoral cooperation under the new cycle, which also includes South Africa as a key focus country.

She said the programme is designed to strengthen workers’ rights through coordinated long-term projects, even as SASK faces funding constraints following a nearly 40 percent reduction in support from the Finnish government.

Perttula said the cuts have required operational adjustments but reaffirmed SASK’s commitment to supporting trade unions and advancing labour rights.

She added that priorities under the new cycle include climate change, just transition, gender equality, disability inclusion, and protection against workplace harassment, alongside growing engagement with the private sector to promote responsible business practices.

She said SASK continues to work closely with Finnish trade unions, global union federations, and local partners to implement its programmes.

Meanwhile, PSI Zambia Project Coordinator Milimo Kapombe said the previous “Advancing Workers’ Rights in Africa” programme recorded progress in strengthening trade unions and formalising Community Health Workers (CHWs) in Zambia.

He said key achievements included training materials, advocacy tools, and policy development supporting CHWs, as well as the recruitment of about 920 workers across seven provinces.

Kapombe said engagements with government contributed to the development of incentive guidelines for CHWs, and reaffirmed continued efforts to secure their recognition and protection.

The launch marks the beginning of the SASK 2026–2029 Programme in Zambia.

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