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This World Day Against Child Labour, let us give a red card to child exploitation and champion a future where every child enjoys education, protection, and hope.

Together, we can protect children’s rights, and build a future free from child labour

Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary Angela Kawandami attributed the decrease in cases of child labour to the introduction of free education by the UPND Government.

Ms Kawandami was speaking in Chipangali District during the observation of the Workd Day Against Child Labour yesterday, held at Kasenga primary school under the theme “Red Card to Child Labour; Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults”.

According to the Ministry of Education, child enrollment rose from 5.9 million in 2023 to 6.5 million in 2024, with early childhood enrollment doubling from 336, 000 in 2021 to over 651, 000 in 2024.

Ms Kawandami said the free education policy contributed to the enrollment of two million children into school since 2021.

“The Government is investigating heavily in infrastructure via the Constituency Development Fund building schools and classrooms especially in rural areas. Government is also recruiting teachers expanding school feeding programs and providing desks and learning materials to improve quality and protect children from child labour,”she said.

Ms Kawandami added that the introduction of the competence-based curriculum is equipping learners with practical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world while strengthening efforts to keep children in school.

The new curriculum places greater emphasis on practical skills, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship to prepare learners for future opportunities.

“All these efforts demonstrate Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child in Zambia is protected, educated and given an opportunity to realize their full potential. I therefore call upon employers to uphold Labour laws and reject child labour,”said Ms. Kawandami

“Let us renew our commitment to giving a firm and united red card to child labour. Let us build a Zambia where every child is protected from exploitation; every family has access to decent livelihood and every child grows into a responsible and productive citizen.”

Ministry of Labour and Social Security Acting Permanent Secretary Greatson Chipalo said sustainable development cannot be built on the exploitation of children.

Meanwhile, Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Lewis Mwape said reintegrating children who drop out of school due to early pregnancy, strengthens the fight against child labour by safeguarding their right to education and reducing their vulnerability to exploitation.

Zambia Federation of Employers represented by Japan Tobacco International Corporate Affairs and Communications manager Hazele Hilary said ending child labour can be achieved when adults have decent jobs and social protection.

Mr Hazele called for responsible business conduct to eliminate child labour, by ensuring strengthened labour standards, fair competition; which can only be achieved through collective efforts.

Federation of Free Trade Unions Zambia, Secretary General Nelson Mwale urged mining owners to avoid cheap labour by hiring children in mining activities. He also appealed to traditional leaders to see to it that cultural activities do not hinder children from accessing education.

International Labour Organization Country Director for Zambia and Malawi, Wellington Chibebe said, despite global progress, the world remains off track to end child labour by 2030, with agriculture continuing to account for the majority of child labour cases.

He indicated that sustainable agricultural growth must go hand in hand with the protection of children’s rights, because when farming families have access to education, social protection and decent work, children are less likely to be drawn into labour and are instead given the opportunity to thrive.

And Chief Chanje pledged to champion the fight against child labour by ensuring that children are not engaged in work that deprives them of their childhood and education, and that participation in cultural dances does not hinder their learning.

From the youths receiving free education, to the pensioners securing their future, we love you and we care for you. That is why we are delivering for you as we sign these landmark bills into law later today.

Today is a great day but there is still more work to be done.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL, AVIATION SECURITY, ECZ SERVICES, TOLL AND WEIGHBRIDGE OPERATIONS CLASSIFIED AS ESSENTIAL SERVICES

Lusaka, Zambia 2nd June, 2026- The Ministry of Labour and Social Security wishes to inform the general public that the designation of air traffic control services, civil aviation security, electoral services offered by employees of Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), toll point and weighbridge operations and the supply and distribution of petroleum services as essential, has taken effect following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument No.47 of 2026.

The Statutory Instrument, cited as the Industrial and Labour Relations (Essential Service) (Declaration) Order, 2026, signed by the-then Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, was issued pursuant to Section 107(10)(g) of the Industrial and Labour Relations Act, Cap. 269 of the Laws of Zambia, following Cabinet’s approval at its 9th Meeting held on 14th May 2026.

Government’s decision to declare such services as essential, followed extensive consultations with social partners through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council, recognizing the critical role that workers in these categories play in safeguarding the nation’s peace, democracy, and the smooth functioning of the economy.

The declaration is intended to protect workers’ rights while ensuring uninterrupted delivery of critical services that are essential to maintaining economic stability and basic societal functions, particularly during emergencies such as pandemics, natural disasters, or national crises, facilitating the movement of goods and services, supporting the collection of toll fees for maintenance, to protect road infrastructure and enhance road safety and the management of free, fair, and credible elections, which form the foundation of Zambia’s democratic governance.

Government would like to urge employers operating in sectors declared as essential to identify employees designated to perform essential services and issue them with Essential Service Certificates in accordance with the law. These certificates will serve as official recognition of the employee’s status in facilitating uninterrupted provision of essential services during periods of industrial disputes or other circumstances requiring the maintenance of minimum service levels.

In accordance with the Industrial and Labour Relations Act, disputes arising from essential services should be referred to the Industrial Relations Court for speedy resolution.

Employees designated as essential service workers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights and responsibilities under the Industrial and Labour Relations Act.

Issued By:

(Original Copy Signed)

Mwaka Ndawa (MS)

Principal Public Relations Officer

Ministry of Labour and Social Security

Speaking during a stakeholder meeting on Psychometrics organised by the Ministry in collaboration with Prometric in Lusaka yesterday, Mr Luhanaga said psychometric systems and modern workforce assessments are critical to strengthening Zambia’s skills development agenda and creating employment opportunities for young people.

The Permanent Secretary noted that technological advancement, digital transformation and global labour mobility are redefining labour markets and increasing demand for internationally recognised competencies.

Mr. Luhanga said Prometric’s expertise in psychometric services, secure testing systems and workforce assessments presents an opportunity for Zambia to improve the quality, credibility and accessibility of occupational assessments across multiple sectors.

“Government recognises the urgent need to modernise assessment and certification systems in order to equip our citizens with relevant, competitive and internationally recognised competencies,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary indicated that technology driven psychometric assessments are critical in supporting national priorities such as occupational testing modernisation, labour mobility, recognition of prior learning and informal sector certification.

In emphasising his point, Mr Luhanga cited concerns raised during the nomination exercise where the Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ) detected 10 forged Grade 12 examination papers.

He noted that such incidents emphasize the urgent need to strengthen examination integrity systems, modernise verification processes tools to safeguard the credibility of national qualifications and protect the integrity of Zambia’s education and certification systems.

Mr Luhanga said the partnership will also help to expand digital skills and artificial intelligence training opportunities for young people and professionals, thereby enhancing employability and productivity.

Mr. Luhanga stressed that Zambia cannot remain on the sidelines of the global artificial intelligence transformation, as investment in modern assessment systems would help prepare the country’s workforce for the future of work.

He also called on stakeholders to ideate on developing inclusive and sustainable systems aligned with Zambia’s development aspirations and labour market needs.

National Productivity Development Director, Cyprian Mayamba said the world of work has significantly evolved following the COVID-19 pandemic, with technology and digital innovation now playing a central role in shaping modern workplaces and driving growth in the digital economy.

He noted that psychometrics has equally evolved within the changing work environment and is increasingly contributing to efficient recruitment, employee selection, placement and career progression systems by companies.

Mr. Mayamba added that technology-driven psychometric assessments are helping institutions identify relevant skills and competencies, thereby promoting productivity, improving access to employment opportunities and contributing to the decent work agenda.

Representative of Prometric, Erica Hepburn, urged institutions to embrace secure and technology driven assessment systems in order to improve the quality, credibility and efficiency of examinations and professional certification processes.

Ms. Hepburn said Prometric is advancing fairness, transparency and integrity in examinations through advanced computer based testing systems and data driven assessment tools that will help in curbing exam malpractices and strengthen operational efficiency.

She highlighted that the company’s psychometric and professional certification services are enabling industries such as healthcare, finance, information technology and public service to accurately identify skilled and competent personnel capable of meeting evolving industry demands.

Ms. Hepburn added that Prometric is expanding access to internationally recognised assessments through its global testing network and flexible scheduling systems for candidates, thereby supporting labour mobility, participation in the digital economy and recognition of qualifications across borders.

The meeting was held as part of the ongoing 100 Days of Productivity Activism campaign aimed at promoting a national culture of productivity and innovation.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, the ILO Country Director for Zambia and Malawi, Wellington Chibebe said the intervention is aimed at addressing institutional capacity gaps and improving efficiency in the management of skills development programmes.

“This investment demonstrates our collective commitment to strengthening institutional capacity and supporting effective coordination and evidence-based decision-making in skills development,” Mr Chibebe said.

He noted that the Ministry of Labour and Social Security leads on skills governance through the Skills Advisory Committee and Labour Market Information System while the Ministry of Technology and Science, as Project Manager of SDEP, plays a central role in coordinating implementation.

The equipment is expected to enhance these functions by improving data management, coordination, and reporting systems across the skills development ecosystem.

He said the intervention will further align training systems with labour market needs and strengthen employability outcomes for women and men across Zambia.

“We are confident that this equipment will contribute meaningfully to improved skills coordination, stronger labour market information, and the empowerment of the next generation of Zambian craftsmen, technicians, and leaders,”said Mr. Chibebe.

Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary, Zechariah Luhanga said the equipment will help the Ministry in intensifying its digital transformation drive, service delivery and operational efficiency.

Mr. Luhanga described the support as a major milestone in addressing long standing ICT challenges that had slowed service delivery at both headquarters and provincial offices.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing service delivery, and improving the overall efficiency of our operations,” Mr Luhanga said.

“Today, we can proudly say that the support from the ILO has begun to address these longstanding challenges. The provision of this equipment will significantly ease operational constraints, enhance staff productivity, and improve the quality and timeliness of services delivered to the public”.

He added that the equipment will play a critical role in the rollout of the Labour Market Information System, which is expected to strengthen the collection and analysis of labour market data.

“Reliable data is the backbone of effective policy making. Through improved data systems, we will be better positioned to respond to labour market demands and foster inclusive economic growth and decent work opportunities for Zambians,” said Mr. Luhanga.

And Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary, Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu has commended the European Union and the International Labour Organization for supporting Zambia’s skills development agenda through the provision of ICT equipment and internet connectivity under the SDEP project.

The Permanent Secretary said the support comes at a critical time when Government is accelerating digital transformation in the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training sector.

“This collaboration remains critical in strengthening our capacity to effectively coordinate, monitor, and support skills development initiatives in the country,” the Permanent Secretary said.

Dr. Habeenzu said that Zambia’s growing youth population requires practical and market-relevant skills to address unemployment and skills mismatches.

“Many young people have big dreams but face limited opportunities due to inadequate access to modern training tools and relevant skills. Partnerships such as these are helping create an enabling environment for quality job creation,”He said.

The Permanent Secretary further stressed that Government will continue to leverage partnerships to modernise TEVET institutions through digital technologies such as e-learning platforms and virtual laboratories.

“This donation is a clear demonstration of confidence in Government’s drive to digitally transform TEVET and prepare young people for the demands of the modern labour market,”said Dr Habeenzu.

Speaking ahead of the end of her tenure today Friday, 15th May 2026, Ms. Tambatamba reflected on what she described as a collective journey of rebuilding the labour market through law, fairness, and inclusive growth under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.

“Today I am here not to say goodbye, but to say thank you,”and collectively reflect on the journey we have walked. Together, we defended workers’ dignity, strengthened labour laws, and built policies that will continue to shape the future of work in Zambia,” she said

The Minister aid the Ministry successfully implemented major reforms under its 2021–2026 Strategic Plan, by strengthening institutional governance, improving labour law enforcement, and expanding access to social security services across the country.

Among the key achievements under her tenure were the enactment and amendment of several labour laws, including reforms to the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), which introduced the 20 percent pre-retirement pension benefit and reduced employer penalty rates. She also noted that over K2.2 billion was paid out to more than 66,000 former Zambia National Provident Fund (ZNPF) members following reforms aimed at closing legacy accounts.

Ms. Tambatamba further cited the expansion of occupational health and safety services to all sectors beyond mining, intensified labour inspections to improve compliance with labour and international standards, and the introduction of Statutory Instrument No. 69 of 2025 to provide guaranteed funeral expense reimbursements under the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board.

She emphasized the importance of social dialogue through the Tripartite Labour Consultative Council, describing industrial harmony as essential for investment, productivity, and inclusive economic growth. The Minister also underscored efforts to extend social protection to informal sector workers and strengthen skills development systems by compiling a critical skills list in Mining, Tourism, Energy and Agriculture to align training with labour market demands.

Ms. Tambatamba thanked workers, employers, unions, and Ministry staff for contributing to the reforms, stating that the progress recorded was built on cooperation, sacrifice, and a shared commitment to protecting the dignity of labour in Zambia.

Government Tightens Rules On Trade Union Registration

Lusaka, Zambia 14th May, 2026-In a bid to strengthen effective workers’ representation, Government has moved to discourage fragmentation in the labour movement through the issuance of Statutory Instrument No. 30 of 2026, which introduces new measures aimed at promoting unity, accountability, and coordinated solutions within trade unions across the country.

The new regulations, signed by Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, issued under the Industrial and Labour Relations Act, introduce stricter conditions for the registration of trade unions, a decisive move aimed at addressing the growing proliferation of unions.

The Statutory Instrument was promulgated following broad consultations with trade unions and employers, who expressed concern over increasing fragmentation within the labour movement, noting that some individuals were prioritising personal interests over the welfare and representation of workers.

Government believes that through solidarity, coordination, and collective action, the labour movement can achieve greater results than through fragmented and isolated voices.

The reforms are also in line with the Constitution of Zambia, which allows for reasonable conditions in the registration and regulation of unions, while remaining in conformity with accepted International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards on freedom of association and the right to organise.

Groups seeking to register a trade union will now be required to secure support from at least two unions within the same sector and two unions outside the sector before registration can be granted. The reforms are designed to promote unity, sector coordination, and genuine representation of workers.

Government has also moved to strengthen integrity standards within the labour movement by barring individuals linked to financial misconduct, dishonesty, abuse of union funds, bankruptcy, legal disqualification, or repeated union fragmentation from participating in the registration of new unions.

The regulations further stop the re-registration of de-registered unions whose cancellation resulted from misconduct by union leadership, reinforcing Government’s commitment to accountability and responsible union governance.

The Ministry would like to make it clear that the reforms are not intended to restrict freedom of association, but rather to strengthen the integrity, stability, and effectiveness of trade unions in representing workers’ interests. The regulations also provide flexibility for emerging sectors that do not yet have existing trade unions.

Government remains devoted to protecting workers’ rights and freedom of association while ensuring that the labour movement remains organised, credible, and responsive to the interests of employees across the country.

Issued By:

Mwaka Ndawa(MS)

Principal Public Relations Officer

Ministry of Labour and Social Security