Month: May 2026

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

Officiating at the launch held at Sarovar Hotel in Lusaka, Honourable Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, MP, Minister of Labour and Social Security, emphasized that productivity remains the backbone of national development, job creation, enterprise growth, and improved livelihoods.

The reports launched include:

– 2025 Productivity Monitoring Report

– 2023 Zambia Productivity Report

– Labour Productivity Trend Analysis Policy Brief (2018–2023)

– Policy Brief on the Productivity Ecosystems for Decent Work Programme

The Minister highlighted that the launch, taking place on Day 69 of the ongoing 100 Days of Productivity Activism under the theme “Mindset Shift for a Productive Zambia: Every Positive Action Counts,” demonstrates Government’s continued commitment to promoting a culture of productivity across all sectors of the economy in line with the 8th National Development Plan (8NDP).

 

The two countries reaffirmed the strong and growing partnership anchored on mutual respect, sustainable development, and shared global values.

Government represented by Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary, Zechariah Luhanga underscored continued collaboration in key sectors including; renewable energy, agriculture, Governance, trade, investment, and human capital development, as both partners work towards inclusive growth and shared prosperity.

Officiating at the 2026 Labour Day Celebrations yesterday, themed: “Securing Zambia’s Future of Work: Protecting Jobs, Skills and Pensions for Decent Work for All” President Hichilema said sustainable business growth in Zambia depends on how well employers treat and invest in their workforce.

Emphasizing on the value of labour, the Head of State described workers as the backbone of any enterprise, stressing that no business can function without employees.

“Labour, we celebrate you. No employer, no capital will run a business without labour. I am one of the labour fraternity,” he said, while also acknowledging the critical role of employers.

President Hichilema highlighted the interdependence between labour and capital, noting that the two must coexist in balance for the economy to thrive.

“We love employers as labour, the two are sides of the same coin,” he said.

President Hichilema emphasized that improving working conditions is not just a social obligation but a business imperative.

He called for deliberate efforts to protect workers and enhance their welfare, stressing that when workers are protected, valued, and fairly treated, productivity increases and enterprises become more resilient.

“Let us look after labour, let us look after our employers so that they can look after business. Successful employers mean successful employees,”the President said.

He further cautioned against industrial unrest, stressing that workplace stability is a key driver of economic growth.

“Stability in the workplace is vital for business to grow, we want to see more harmony and less street fights,” President Hichilema said, signalling government’s preference for dialogue and cooperation over conflict.

Linking efficiency to job creation, the President cited major projects such as the Ndola-Lusaka Dual carriage way, noted that prudent project implementation can help Government save on resources for expansion and employment.

“When we do projects at a low cost, we will save more money so we can employ more people,” he said, adding that a growing economy would enable employers to offer better wages and improved conditions of service.

President Hichilema made a clarion call for economic transformation, maintaining that Zambians must shift from consumption-driven habits to production-led growth.

“Let’s be a country of producers and not consumers,”said the Head of State.

Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Mwika Tambatamba said the Ministry, through the Workers Compensation Fund Control Board, is constructing a budget hotel in Chinsali in Muchinga Province, which is near completion. She indicated that the K246 million project is expected to boost tourism in the northern circuit, with 69 bed spaces and a 300-seat conference capacity.

Ms. Tambatamba said the project is part of the institution’s broader initiative to channel pension-backed investments into productive sectors. She added that Labour Day also provides an opportunity to assess progress in strengthening industrial harmony, noting that employers and workers are increasingly opting for dialogue over confrontation.

Muchinga Province Minister Njavwa Simutowe said the region is positioning itself as an investment destination. He restated Government’s resolve to fighting for decent wages, safe working conditions and social protection.

Zambia Federation of Employers president, Myra Ngoma stressed that the future of work must be closely tied to enterprise development and national competitiveness. She said investment in human capital is critical, describing skills as the “new currency” in a rapidly evolving global economy, which calls for stronger alignment between training systems and labour market demands to ensure the workforce remains relevant and competitive.

Meanwhile, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions president Blake Mulala said job protection must go beyond statistics, pointing to ongoing challenges such as insecure employment, casualisation and lack of pension coverage for many workers. He called for formalisation of the informal economy and stronger enforcement of labour protections, noting that Zambia risks losing global competitiveness if workers are left behind despite the ongoing reforms in key sectors.

And International Labour Organization country Director for Zambia and Malawi, Wellington Chibebe emphasized that job protection must begin with deliberate job creation, particularly in high-potential sectors such as agriculture, construction, tourism and renewable energy.

He also highlighted the importance of productivity in spurring economic growth, stating that improving efficiency and output is essential for raising incomes, strengthening competitiveness and ensuring shared prosperity.