Trade union decries poor work conditions, as govt insists on compliance with labour laws

The Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has criticised poor conditions of service in some private-sector institutions, saying unfair treatment of workers continues to undermine national development.

ZCTU Secretary General, Dr Joy Beene Beene, said employers and workers were partners in economic development and should work together to improve productivity, employee welfare and industrial relations.

Beene was speaking in Lusaka at ZCTU headquarters during commemorations of the World Day for Decent Work, observed annually on October 7.

This year’s commemoration was held under the theme, “Young Workers Organize for the Future.”

“This year’s theme highlights challenges affecting young workers, including unemployment, low wages, insecure employment and the need for fair and decent working conditions,” Beene said.

Meanwhile, Labour Commissioner, Givens Muntengwa, called for stronger protection of young workers, including interns, saying decent employment conditions were critical to building a productive workforce and securing Zambia’s future.

Muntengwa urged employers to comply with labour laws and provide appropriate conditions of service, stressing that respect for workers’ rights was essential to maintaining harmonious industrial relations.

“Employers have a responsibility to create workplaces where young people can gain experience while being treated fairly and protected from exploitation,” he said.

He said interns and other young workers should not be viewed merely as cheap labour, but as future professionals whose skills and capacity contribute to national development.

Muntengwa said Government would continue conducting labour inspections to ensure employers comply with the Employment Act and other labour regulations.

He also encouraged employees, particularly young workers, to understand their rights and responsibilities under the law and the Code of Ethics.

“There is need for sustainable job creation and young people must explore different income opportunities while gaining skills and experience through employment,” he said.

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