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DEATH NOTICE

 

Lusaka 19th March 2025…The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is saddened to announce the passing of Mr. George Patrick Kashinka, who served as Director Occupational Safety and Health Services.

Engineer Kashinka breathed his last in the wee hours of March 19, 2025 around 02:00 hours, at the University Teaching Hospital after a short illness.

Eng. Kashinka who joined the Ministry on 28th March 2003, served with dedication and made noteworthy contributions towards the development of the Zambia Occupational Safety and Health association ACT, he spearheaded the review of the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) legal framework and OSH policy.

His efficiency and obligation to public service has left a lifelong impact on the Ministry. He will be remembered for his hard work, cheeriness and a positive attitude towards work.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security wishes to extend heartfelt condolences to his family and stands in solidarity with everyone mourning his loss.

The funeral is being held at his home in Lusaka west at Plot No.5656M off Mumbwa Road.

Directions to the house of mourning are as follows:

Along Mumbwa road, just after Garden House Mall, turn left on the first gravel road, drive towards the MTN tower, and take the immediate turn on the left.

Issued by:

(Original Copy Signed)

Mwaka Ndawa (Ms)

Principal Public Relations Officer

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MINISTRY OF LABOUR INITIATES RE-ASSESMENT OF NATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY POLICY

REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA
MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL SECURITY
(Press Release)
MINISTRY OF LABOUR INITIATES RE-ASSESMENT OF NATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY POLICY
Lusaka 17th March 2025…The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has commenced the review of the National Productivity Policy, to align it with the emerging trends on the labour market.
Since its initiation in 2021, the National Productivity Policy (NPP) was tailored to enhance productivity across Zambia’s sectors, ensuring viable economic growth and job creation with a focus on enterprise productivity improvement support, Productivity Consciousness awareness, Support to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and community engagement on productivity.
The review seeks to address the gaps in the modifications of the National Development plan, priorities and agenda, awareness and adoption of productivity improvement tools and practices together with the limited capacity of the institutions implementing the policy.
Other issues to be considered are: the weak institutional frameworks for implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of productivity, and emerging issues of climate change and digital transformation.
Speaking when he launched the review of the National Productivity Policy in Kafue today, Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary Zechariah Luhanga urged technocrats under the Ministry’s National Productivity Development Department (NPDD) and other stakeholders to devise an inclusive and progressive national productivity policy that will
tackle the decline of overall productivity growth.
Mr. Luhanga also emphasized on the establishment of a legal framework that promotes and measures productivity in the country. He further directed the technocrats to come up with a draft policy in an efficient and cost-effective manner in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive of doing more with less.
“I therefore expect the new policy to be ready by the end of the second quarter so that a standard which can be replicated across other similar tasks is set, “said Mr. Luhanga.
Issued by:
Mwaka Ndawa
Principal Public Relations Officer
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Action Employment Policies – PS Zechariah Luhanga

10th March 2025…

Today, at the Employment Policy Training Workshop in Kitwe, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Mr. Zechariah Luhanga, emphasized the Government’s commitment to action policy reforms by creating more jobs and strengthening Zambia’s labour market. The training is led by the theme: “Learning From The Past, Preparing For The Future”.

(Zechariah Luhanga – Permanent Secretary MLSS)

Key Take aways from his Address:

  • Reviewing the 2018 National Employment Policy – The Government is working to align the policy with Vision 2030 and evolving labour market trends to promote decent work and economic growth.
  • Over 80,000 jobs created (2022-2023) – As part of the New Dawn Government’s economic transformation agenda, Zambia has seen significant job creation, and efforts are ongoing to expand employment opportunities.
  • Stronger partnerships for job creation – Strong partnerships between Government, employers, trade unions, and development partners are crucial to boost job creation, skills development, and workplace productivity.
  • ILO’s vital role –The International Labour Organization (ILO) is working with the Ministry to refine policies that ensure decent work, fair wages, and better labour conditions.

Way forward:

The Ministry is committed to finalising Employment policy updates, implementing key recommendations, and ensuring employment reforms benefit the people of Zambia.

Together, we are shaping a fair, inclusive, and thriving job market for Zambia’s future!

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Kasempa residents implored to contribute towards economic growth through productivity

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Mwika Tambatamba (MP) has urged residents of Kasempa to participate in the training and sensitization programs that will be conducted my the Ministry and its Statutory bodies within the area today.
Ms. Tambatamba was speaking when she attended Mass at St Andrew’s Catholic Church yesterday in Kasempa constituency.
Here are the Highlights:
✅Officials from the Ministry under the National Productivity Development Department,
will hold the Productivity Clinic to offer mentorship programs and business development training to members of the public, so that they can grow their enterprise.
✅The Labour Clinic will also be set up at Council offices allow the masses to access the services offered by the Ministry and its Statutory Bodies: Workers Compensation, Kaizen Institute of Zambia, Occupational Safety and Health Institute (OSHI) and the Zambia Isntitute of Human Resource (ZIRHM).
✅The public was urged to foster a culture of innovation.
✅Government called for increased productivity in agriculture, to promote food security and drive economic development.
✅Young girls were encouraged to believe in their potential if they intend to become future leaders; and urged to amplify their voices to foster change in their communities.
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Government Introduces Two Bills To Refine Social Security Schemes

5th March, 2025
The Ministry of Labour and social Security this morning held its first Tripartite Consultative Labour Council meeting this year, to address pressing labour issues.
Government, Employers, and Trade Unions held discussions on critical labour policies and workplace reforms.
As Government embarks on work place reforms Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Mwika Tambatamba (MP) emphasized on the transformation of the informal economy to a formal economy.
Ms Tambatamba noted that, businesses in the informal economy operate without proper licenses and do not comply with regulatory requirements, and as a result, the workforce lacks access to social protection, fair wages and safe working conditions.
Highlights;
✅ The TCLC meeting focused on Social Protection, the discussion of the Health and Safety Association Bill, An update on the Employment Code Act Amendments and the Resolutions of the 51st African Regional Labour Administration Council meeting (ARLAC)
✅Government will undertake pension reforms to address deficiencies in the design, financing, administration and Supervision of the Schemes.
✅The reforms will provide an opportunity for the Pension Industry to address changes in the pension sector and improve on ways of doing business.
✅ Government will see to it that Pension Houses undertake strategic investments that will expand members’ benefits and economic development.
✅A new Pensions and Insurance Authority Bill has been introduced to prolong the lifespan of the Pensions and Insurance Authority as an entity.
✅The Bill also provides for the establishment of Pensions and Insurance Tribunal, which will speedily resolve disputes between public and private entities.
✅The Pension Scheme Regulation Bill provides for the inclusion of the Supervision of the Public Pension Schemes and the establishment of the Pension Protection Fund.
✅The Workers’ Compensation Bill seeks to modernize and harmonise the Workers Compensation Fund, improve benefits as well as extend cover to the informal sector and Public Service employees, and will repeal the Workers compensation Act no.10 of 1999.
✅Government reiterated its commitment to see to it that pensioners have sufficient retirement income.
The Social Security Bills will be tabled before Parliament soon.
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FAITH AND DEVELOPMENT: CHRIST EMBASSY ZAMBIA PAYS COURTESY CALL ON LABOUR MINISTER

 

Lusaka, 26th February 2025 – The Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Brenda Tambatamba, MP, today hosted representatives from Christ Embassy Zambia, Pastor Franklin Mubanga and Counsel Priscilla M. Kamanga, who paid a courtesy visit as part of the church’s ReachOut World initiative with the Rhapsody of Realities.

The visit reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Government and faith-based organisations in fostering national development, productivity, and mindset transformation, in line with Zambia’s National Values and Principles as enshrined in the Republican Constitution.

In her remarks, Hon. Tambatamba expressed her gratitude to Christ Embassy for their unwavering support in promoting spiritual growth, social cohesion, and community empowerment. She underscored the importance of resilience and a positive mindset in achieving national productivity and economic transformation, emphasizing that faith plays a crucial role in shaping ethical leadership and a diligent workforce.

“A progressive nation is built on the foundation of a strong work ethic, responsibility, and service to others. As a Christian Nation, Zambia must embrace productivity and a shift in mindset to drive sustainable development. Faith-based organisations like Christ Embassy play a vital role in instilling values of hard work, integrity, and discipline,” she said.

The Minister also highlighted the Government’s commitment to ensuring inclusive social security policies that empower citizens to thrive, particularly through skills development, job creation, and economic resilience. She stressed that Zambia’s labour force must adapt to the evolving global economic landscape by embracing innovation, self-reliance, and ethical work practices.

Furthermore, she emphasized the critical role of self-employment as a driver of economic growth, encouraging citizens to embrace entrepreneurship, skills development, and innovation. Recognizing that reliance on formal employment alone is no longer sustainable in today’s dynamic economy, she urged individuals, especially the youth, to tap into their creativity, talents, and opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, and small-scale industries.

Pastor Franklin Mubanga, speaking on behalf of Christ Embassy Zambia, explained that the ReachOut World initiative seeks to spread hope, healing, and transformation through the distribution of the Rhapsody of Realities, a devotional translated into over 8,000 languages and dialects worldwide. He emphasized that the church remains committed to partnering with the Government in uplifting communities and fostering positive change across the country.

Counsel Priscilla M. Kamanga echoed this sentiment, stating that faith and national development go hand in hand, as values such as service, diligence, and excellence are integral to nation-building. She reaffirmed Christ Embassy’s dedication to advancing Zambia’s development agenda through outreach and community engagement.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security acknowledges the vital role of faith-based institutions in nation-building, mindset change, and productivity enhancement. As Zambia continues to pursue economic transformation and social equity, the Government remains open to collaborating with stakeholders across all sectors to drive sustainable progress.

Issued by:
Ministry of Labour and Social Security
Public Relations Unit

 

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Government to transform KIZ into a productivity hub to promote job creation

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Mwika Tambatamba (MP) says Government is expanding the private sector in order to create jobs, hence the need to transition informal enterprises into formal ones.
Speaking during the 2025 Kaizen conference yesterday themed “Fostering Economic Resilience, Innovation and Growth through Continuous Improvement”, Ms. Tambatamba said Government will transform the KAIZEN Institute of Zambia limited, into an anchor of national productivity.
She said this is aimed at influencing actions towards adopting a productive culture.
Ms. Tambatamba said in order to promote productivity, the Ministry through the National Productivity Development Department (NPDD) and the KAIZEN Institute of Zambia trained 239 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in productivity enhancement services, 77 enterprises were supported with productivity enhancement services, whilst 130 enterprises were applying productivity techniques.
She said the national productivity policy will be revised and a legal framework will be formulated to support its implementation.
The minister said to cushion the impact of drought on households which has negatively impacted productivity, jobs and income growth , Government introduced cash for work, to provide financial relief to vulnerable families.
Ministry of Labour and Social Security Permanent Secretary, Zechariah Luhanga said the aid grant for the Kaizen project has increased from K3.3 million in 2021 to K6.7 million.
Kaizen Institute Zambia Chief Executive Officer, Tamala Namakobo said Small and Medium Sized enterprises have contributed to economic transformation and job creation pillar of the 8th National Development Plan (8thNDP).
She said K3 million financial gain has been recorded from cost reduction and revenue growth initiatives and 213 jobs were created, which is significant in property reduction.
Japanese ambassador to Zambia TakeuchiKazuyuki said Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will continue supporting Kaizen programs in various sectors, in order to promote quality and productivity improvement.
Former Kaizen Director General in Ethiopia, Getahun Tadesse said the implementation of infrastructure projects is significant to national development and emphasized on project management and prudent resource utilization.
Zambia Federation of Employees (ZFE) president Myra Ngoma said enhanced productivity must be prioritized in production in the small and medium enterprises, the private sector and the public sector.
She emphasized on service delivery through hard work and bridging skills gaps to improve productivity.
And the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) deputy secretary general finance and planning Dr. Evans Chungu urged workers to stay up to date with industry advancements by embracing emerging technologies such as, artificial intelligence and data science which have robbed many of their jobs.
By PR Unit,
Ministry of Labour and Social Security
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Government is creating a positive business landscape for job growth – President Hichilema

PRESIDENT HAKAINDE Hichilema says government is focused on growing the private sector by creating a conducive business climate, in order to promote job creation.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice-President Mutale Nalumango during the 3rd Private Sector Day Re-run meeting at Mulungushi international Conference Centre yesterday, President Hichilema said government will see to it that it creates positive market conditions, so that the business sector fosters job growth.
“I want to assure you that Government remains committed to reducing business costs and improving the ease of doing business,” he said.
In her contributions during the interactive session, Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Tambatamba (MP), called for enhanced youth participation in job creation by honing their skills, so that they are capable of creating employment.
Ms. Tambatamba said there’s need to transition from informality to formality.
“The vision is organizing ourselves from all the sectors to play our part. What we need to do is build the young people and change the narrative that jobs are scarce. We need to tell them that they were born innovators,” said Ms. Tambatamba.
The event was attended by cabinet minister’s, permanent secretaries, senior government officials and members of the public.
By PR Unit,
Ministry of Labour and Social Security.
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Contribute to innovation on informality to formality- Labour movement urged

MINISTER of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba (MP), has urged the labour movement to take part in transforming the informal economy to a formal economy.
Ms. Tambatamba said the informal economy takes up a large share of the labour market and currently stands at 70% while the formal sector only takes up 30%.
The minister was speaking when she opened the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions Biannual Conference, yesterday at Mulungushi International Conference Centre.
Ms. Tambatamba further said human capital is crucial for economic growth, hence the need to foster employee welfare.
“We want to see a movement that will promote the well being of workers. We need to work hard as tripartite partners to transform the informal sector. Be proactive in policy implementation, bring new ideas to the table,” she said.
Ms. Tambatamba re-assured the public of President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to creating more jobs to expand economic growth, as employment opportunities bring relief in Worker households.
The Minister said Government’s dedication to job creation has been demonstrated through the unprecedented re-awakening of the dead mining industry.
Ms. Tambatamba also indicated that Government is refining the National Pension’s Scheme (NAPSA) Act to provide a harmonized pension system for enhanced member’s benefits.
She urged the labour movement to remodel their processes in order to avoid fragmentation, as it hampers worker representation.
Labour Commissioner Givens Muntengwa said government cannot be faulted for registering unions, as preventing the formulation of unions will amount to abrogating the law.
He said the labour movement should come up with proposals on how to manage the multiplicity of unions, which will be considered by the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (TCLC).
Earlier, ZCTU president Blake Mulala expressed concern that proliferation has weakened the labour movement.
However, he commended government for promoting good governance.
By PR Unit,
Ministry of Labour and Social Security