Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 5th March, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Tripartite Consultative Labour Council (TCLC) Meeting commenced today with a strong call for collaborative action to address key labour market challenges and drive forward critical reforms in Zambia’s social protection and employment policies.
Presiding over the gathering, Hon. Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, Minister of Labour and Social Security, underscored the urgency of formalizing the informal sector, strengthening pension schemes, and reviewing labour legislation to create a more equitable and sustainable workforce.
With over 70% of Zambia’s workforce engaged in the informal sector, Minister Tambatamba highlighted the pressing need for regulatory compliance, improved worker protections, and a structured transition towards formal employment. She called for collaborative efforts from government, employers, and trade unions to address the precarious conditions faced by informal workers, who often lack access to social protection, fair wages, and safe working environments.
The TCLC discussions centered on major legislative and policy changes, including:
- The Occupational Health and Safety Association Bill – Enhancing workplace safety regulations.
- Amendments to the Employment Code Act – Ensuring a more modern and inclusive legal framework for employment.
- Resolutions from the 51st African Regional Labour Administration Centre (ARLAC) Meeting – Aligning national policies with regional labour trends.
The New Dawn Government reaffirmed its commitment to pension reforms, aiming to improve the design, financing, and administration of schemes that are pivotal for economic stability and worker security. Minister Tambatamba emphasized the strategic role of social security funds in driving economic growth, citing major investments such as:
- NAPSA’s contribution to the Ndola-Lusaka Dual Carriageway and the Maamba Collieries Coal Plant, projects expected to enhance infrastructure and energy supply.
- NAPSA’s investment portfolio grew from K54 billion in 2021 to K94 billion in 2024 – a 57% increase.
- Workers’ Compensation Fund grew from K3.74 billion in 2022 to K5.14 billion in 2024, marking a 38% increase.
- Additionally, partial withdrawals introduced by NAPSA and incremental compensation by the Workers’ Compensation Board were highlighted as key improvements benefiting workers.
A major concern raised at the meeting was the fragmentation of trade unions, which has led to weakened collective bargaining power. Minister Tambatamba called for greater unity within the labour movement and encouraged unions to actively participate in the ongoing review of the Industrial and Labour Relations Act to promote stronger, more cohesive representation.
As the meeting progressed, Minister Tambatamba expressed confidence that the outcomes of the TCLC discussions would shape progressive labour policies. She urged all stakeholders to engage constructively in shaping a resilient, inclusive, and fair labour market for all Zambians.
“With a shared commitment and decisive action, we can drive meaningful reforms that improve employment conditions, enhance social protection, and ensure a sustainable future for Zambia’s workforce,” she concluded.
The Agency.