The Minister of Labour and Social, Brenda Tambatamba receives a courtesy call from Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and ALL-CHINA FEDERATION OF TRADE UNIONS (ACFTU).

06th November 2024… The Minister of Labour and Social, Brenda Tambatamba received a courtesy call from Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) and ALL-CHINA FEDERATION OF TRADE UNIONS (ACFTU).
The following are the key highlights from the speech delivered by Minister Brenda Tambatamba today at Government Complex in Lusaka.
• Government’s Commitment to Trade Unions: The Zambian Government recognizes the vital role of trade unions in safeguarding workers’ rights, a commitment enshrined in the country’s Constitution. This underscores the nation’s dedication to supporting labour rights.
• Strengthening Industrial Relations Legislation: Through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (TCLC), Zambia provides a platform for constructive dialogue among the Government, employers, and workers. Current reforms to the Industrial and Labour Relations Act and Employment Code Act are underway to further enhance protections for workers.
• Ratification of ILO Convention C190: The Government has ratified the International Labour Organization’s Convention C190 on violence and harassment in the workplace, and efforts are ongoing to integrate its provisions into Zambian law.
• Promotion of Social Dialogue and Productivity: The Ministry of Labour actively fosters collaboration with employers and unions to maintain a harmonious and productive work environment. Unions are encouraged to drive productivity by championing training and development programs for workers.
• Engagement in Governance and Policy: Trade unions are urged to play an active role in governance by participating in policy-making processes, ensuring that economic development benefits all stakeholders.
• Upcoming Job Fair and Productivity Summit: In December, Zambia will host its first Job Fair and Productivity Summit, a proactive measure to tackle youth unemployment and enhance productivity across sectors.
• Warm Welcome and Closing Remarks: The Minister expressed warm hospitality, wishing the delegation a productive visit and encouraging them to explore Zambia’s scenic attractions.
The following are the key highlights from the speech delivered by Minister Brenda Tambatamba during the courtesy call by ZCTU and ACFTU this at Government Complex in Lusaka.
• Government’s Commitment to Trade Unions: The Zambian Government recognizes the vital role of trade unions in safeguarding workers’ rights, a commitment enshrined in the country’s Constitution. This underscores the nation’s dedication to supporting labour rights.
• Strengthening Industrial Relations Legislation: Through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (TCLC), Zambia provides a platform for constructive dialogue among the Government, employers, and workers. Current reforms to the Industrial and Labour Relations Act and Employment Code Act are underway to further enhance protections for workers.
• Ratification of ILO Convention C190: The Government has ratified the International Labour Organization’s Convention C190 on violence and harassment in the workplace, and efforts are ongoing to integrate its provisions into Zambian law.
• Promotion of Social Dialogue and Productivity: The Ministry of Labour actively fosters collaboration with employers and unions to maintain a harmonious and productive work environment. Unions are encouraged to drive productivity by championing training and development programs for workers.
• Engagement in Governance and Policy: Trade unions are urged to play an active role in governance by participating in policy-making processes, ensuring that economic development benefits all stakeholders.
• Upcoming Job Fair and Productivity Summit: In December, Zambia will host its first Job Fair and Productivity Summit, a proactive measure to tackle youth unemployment and enhance productivity across sectors.
• Warm Welcome and Closing Remarks: The Minister expressed warm hospitality, wishing the delegation a productive visit and encouraging them to explore Zambia’s scenic attractions.

Pensions Awareness Week Launch

Hon. Brenda Tambatamba, Minister of Labour and Social Security, launched the 2024 Pensions Awareness Week at the Southern Sun Hotel in Lusaka under the theme, “Empower Your Future: Dignify Your Retirement with a Pension.” The event aims to raise awareness on the importance of retirement planning and financial security for a dignified life in retirement.
Key points highlighted by the Minister include:
• Government’s Commitment to Financial Security: The Government through the Ministry reaffirms its commitment to expanding pension access for all Zambians and aligning with the National Financial Inclusion Strategy (2024-2028) to provide a broad range of quality financial products and services.
• Economic Impact of Pensions: Pensions are essential not only for individual security but also for national economic stability. Employer and employee contributions to pension schemes support long-term investments, job creation, and economic growth.
• Ongoing Pension Reforms: Recent reforms include the National Pension Scheme (Penalty Waiver) Regulations, 2024, which provide relief for employers with accrued penalties, and the introduction of a partial withdrawal benefit, allowing citizens to invest in their retirement earlier.
• Inclusivity and Sustainability: The government is focused on creating a more comprehensive, responsive, and sustainable pension system that serves the needs of both the formal and informal sectors, emphasizing the importance of equitable pension systems for all citizens.
• Call to Action: Employers are encouraged to support employees in understanding their pension benefits, fostering a culture of financial security and retirement readiness across Zambia.
The Minister concluded by acknowledging the efforts of the Pensions and Insurance Authority, the Zambia Association of Pension Funds, and other pension service providers in promoting financial literacy and inclusion. The Pensions Awareness Week will be a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities within Zambia’s pension system.