Group alleges absence of unionization responsible for sexual exploitation in hotel and catering industry

The Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has raised the alarm over reports of sexual exploitation and abuse in the hotel and catering industry, attributing the problem to the lack of union representation for workers in the sector.

Speaking in an interview with Zambia Monitor, ZCTU President, Blake Mulala, said the absence of union protection had created an environment where workers—particularly women— were vulnerable to exploitation and other workplace abuses.

He revealed that ZCTU was compiling a list of hotels and lodges that had consistently blocked union activities and that the list would soon be circulated to all its affiliates with instructions to stop holding any business meetings, workshops, conferences or events at those establishments.

“The ZCTU has resolved that it will not hold any union business meetings, workshops, elective conferences or any other events with hotels that do not allow workers to belong to unions—a clear violation of freedom of association,” Mulala said.

He said the move aimed to curb widespread labour rights violations in the hospitality industry.

Mulala further warned that some international hotel chains operating in Zambia were known for mistreating local workers and often resorted to rebranding after being exposed. He said ZCTU would ensure the law followed such establishments.

“The Congress will continue to name and shame employers with poor labour practices, urging non-compliant employers to comply with the laws,” he added.

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