Zambia Marks World Day Against Child Labor with Plan to Rescue More Children
The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending child labour, calling for stronger nationwide efforts during a commemorative event in Nkeyema District marking the World Day Against Child Labour.
The event, themed “Progress is clear, but there is more to do: Let’s speed up efforts!”, was officiated by Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Brenda Tambatamba, MP, alongside Western Province Minister Hon. Kapelwa Mbangweta, MP.
In her address, Hon. Tambatamba revealed that approximately 430,000 Zambian children are still trapped in child labour—mainly in agriculture, mining, domestic work, and informal trading.
She cited the harrowing case of a 14-year-old domestic worker who was murdered by her employers, highlighting the urgent need to protect vulnerable children.
“Children belong in classrooms, not in hazardous workplaces,” Hon. Tambatamba stressed, underscoring the moral and social responsibility of all stakeholders.
She outlined the government’s achievements, including the withdrawal of over 4,000 children from child labour since 2021, implementation of free education, curriculum reforms, and enactment of the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022.
She also announced plans to revise the National Action Plan (NAPIII) for 2026–2031 to accelerate progress.
Hon. Mbangweta echoed the call for community-level action, saying, “Child labour is not just a labour issue—it is a moral concern. We owe it to our children to protect their future.”
The event drew wide participation from the ILO, Zambia Federation of Employers, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions, civil society groups, traditional leaders, and school children.
Both ministers praised NGOs and international partners for their continued support and urged the private sector to ensure child-free supply chains.
