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Delivering remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Mr. Cyprian Mayamba, Director of the National Productivity and Development Department, highlighted the Government’s unwavering commitment to safety as a fundamental right and moral obligation. He underscored the importance of occupational safety for the nation’s workforce, which directly contributes to economic development and prosperity. Mr. Mayamba applauded the collaborative efforts of AfriSAFE and its partners, stating that empowering individuals with practical life-saving skills would play a crucial role in advancing Zambia’s safety standards and economic resilience.
AfriSAFE CEO, Mr. Femi Da-Silva, addressed the audience, emphasizing that safety is a collective responsibility that starts with individual commitment. He pointed out that the program aims to change the narrative by equipping participants with vital skills such as First Aid, Emergency Evacuation, and Mental Health Management. “Accidents can happen anywhere, anytime, and timely intervention can save lives,” he noted, reinforcing the initiative’s mission to cultivate a safety-first mindset across communities.
Ms. Hellen Mwamba, Managing Director of SMTS Zambia Ltd, echoed these sentiments in her speech, encouraging participants to view safety as a continuous process. “Safety is not just a gadget; it’s a mindset. It’s the vigilance we practice every day to prevent accidents and protect lives,” she stated. Ms. Mwamba stressed the importance of integrating the lessons learned from the training into daily routines and reminded attendees that even small actions, such as ensuring proper equipment handling or avoiding phone use while driving, contribute significantly to a safer environment.
The event featured participation from various organizations, including teacher unions, Zambia Occupational Health and Safety Association, youth groups, and trade unions like the Federation for Free Trade Unions of Zambia. Their involvement underscored the shared commitment to workplace safety across sectors. The presence of diverse stakeholders highlighted the role of social dialogue in enhancing safety standards nationwide.
Mr. Mayamba and other speakers emphasized the economic benefits of prioritizing safety, noting that a healthy workforce leads to increased productivity, reduced costs, and higher morale. The Ministry’s ongoing collaboration with AfriSAFE and other stakeholders aligns with its strategy to promote safety awareness and advocate for continuous improvements in occupational health standards.
The AfriSAFE Free Empowerment Practical Training Program concluded with a strong call to action: safety is an ongoing responsibility that involves everyone. Participants were encouraged to apply the skills gained during the training to help ensure a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Zambia. This initiative not only provided immediate benefits to attendees but also laid the groundwork for a long-term cultural shift towards safety-first practices.
On 8th October 2024, the Honourable Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba, led several important activities in Chipata District, Eastern Province. The visit focused on strengthening labour infrastructure and promoting productivity through the handover of the rehabilitated Chipata District Labour Office and the launch of the National Community Productivity Sensitisation Programme.
The newly refurbished Chipata Labour Office, costing K530,000, is part of the government’s effort to modernize administrative infrastructure, enhancing labour dispute resolution and promoting industrial harmony. The Minister emphasized that the office will play a crucial role in improving service delivery for both employers and employees.
Minister Tambatamba also launched the National Community Productivity Sensitisation Programme, aimed at equipping communities with productivity tools to drive innovation and resource efficiency, especially in the face of challenges like climate change. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster resilience and growth across Zambia.
The Ministry also conducted Child Labour Monitoring in Chipangali District, Kapara Village, focusing on the agricultural sector. Findings showed many children involved in hazardous farming activities like tobacco and cotton production. With the ARISE Project, over 400 children have been removed from child labour and reintegrated into the education system.
Additionally, the Ministry’s team carried out inspections in the transport and agriculture sectors, visiting companies such as Gatoma Assembly Port, Badat Agencies, and Agro Good Nurture. Critical labour violations were identified at Gatoma Assembly, leading to a suspension of operations till employees were given proper protective equipment. On a positive note, Agro Good Nurture was praised for its innovative employee share scheme as part of its social security offerings.
These activities underline the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring fair labour practices, improving public service delivery, and eradicating child labour, while promoting productivity for sustainable national development.