Zambia’s Ministry of Labour Strengthens Collaboration for Improved Working Environment
In a speech at the 56th Annual General Meeting of the Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE), the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Brenda M. Tambatamba, highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to a strong working relationship with both employers and trade unions.
This collaboration aims to create a more conducive and harmonious business environment in Zambia.
The Minister emphasized the importance of frequent consultations. She noted that the Ministry exceeded the legal requirement by holding four Tripartite Consultative Labour Council meetings in 2023.
These meetings brought together representatives from the government, employers, and trade unions to discuss various labor issues.
The Minister reported on several key achievements resulting from these consultations. These included making regulations more flexible for businesses, considering recommendations on the sustainability of the National Health Insurance Management Authority (NHIMA), and addressing specific concerns within the transport sector.
Additionally, discussions were initiated to establish a legal framework for a 24-hour economy, and an agreement was reached on minimum wages and working conditions for non-unionized workers.
Hon. Tambatamba also announced the launch of a new resource handbook. This handbook provides users with easy-to-understand information on labor administration, labor laws, occupational health and safety, social security, pensions, and national productivity.
Furthermore, a call center was established offering a ZAMTEL toll-free line (70710) to provide timely responses to the public’s questions on labor matters. This service is particularly valuable in areas where physical labor offices are not readily available.
In conclusion, the Minister praised the demonstrable collaboration with the Zambia Federation of Employers for the Ministry’s remarkable progress.
She further emphasized ZFE’s commitment to achieving the “decent work agenda,” which aligns with Zambia’s national development plans and the government’s transformative agenda.
