Zambia Clarifies ZNS Training Is Voluntary, Not Forced Labour – Tambatamba Responds to ILO Concerns

Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Mwika Tambatamba has refuted claims that Zambia continues to enforce mandatory Zambia National Service (ZNS) training, clarifying that the programme is fully voluntary and aimed at empowering youths with essential life and vocational skills.

The clarification follows concerns raised by the International Labour Organization (ILO) during its 113th Conference in Geneva, where Zambia was cited by the Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) and the Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS) for allegedly breaching the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29), by promoting forced labour through the ZNS Act.

Speaking during a courtesy call by ILO Labour Standards and Law Specialist Amanda Mejía-Cañadas, Minister Tambatamba set the record straight: “Compulsory ZNS training ended decades ago. The last compulsory intake was in the 1980s. Since then, training has been entirely voluntary for both men and women.”

Tambatamba further highlighted Zambia’s commitment to international labour standards, stating that the country is working on submitting pending instruments and developing a national and international obligations register to strengthen compliance and transparency.

Mejía-Cañadas, in response, applauded Zambia’s efforts to enhance its engagement with the ILO. “The tripartite delegation Zambia presented at the 113th ILO Conference was one of the best I’ve seen in recent years,” she said, also commending the country for promoting inclusive dialogue among government, employers, and workers.

Backing the Minister’s statement, Permanent Secretary Zechariah Luhanga emphasized that the ZNS Act is currently under review, and amendments are awaiting Cabinet’s policy approval. “The ZNS training happening now is strictly voluntary and designed to uplift youth skills in areas such as agriculture and crafts,” Luhanga explained.

Labour Commissioner Givens Muntengwa added that a committee involving various ministries and cooperating partners is finalizing reports on pending ILO instruments, which will be submitted before the end of 2025.

Tambatamba concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to labour rights and social protection: “We are taking these matters seriously. With proper legal frameworks and operational tools, Zambia will continue promoting decent work, lifelong learning, and safe labour environments across the country.”