Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 1st May, 2025.
Kafue District, Zambia.
Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Honourable Mike Elton Mposha, has called on Zambian workers and employers to embrace innovation and locally driven solutions as a cornerstone for national economic transformation.
Speaking during Labour Day commemorations in Kafue District, Hon. Mposha said the 2025 theme, “Shaping Zambia’s Future of Work Through Home Grown Solutions for Inclusive Economic Growth,” encapsulates the government’s broader development agenda under the New Dawn Administration.
He emphasized that workers remain at the heart of Zambia’s socio economic progress, applauding their resilience through the drought induced challenges of 2024. “Your hard work has sustained the province and contributed to the national economic recovery. We honour your efforts today,” he said.
Hon. Mposha underscored the government’s commitment to reducing the cost of doing business and promoting local procurement. He cited initiatives such as the Proudly Zambian Campaign, the Local Content Strategy and affordable financing mechanisms through the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC) and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) as critical levers for job creation and industrial growth.
On pension reform, the minister noted the extension of the NAPSA penalty waiver by 12 months to ease compliance burdens on employers affected by recent economic shocks. “We urge eligible employers to take full advantage of this relief,” he said.
Addressing the future of work, Hon. Mposha highlighted technology, innovation, and skills development as central pillars of Zambia’s evolving labour landscape. He praised strides in digital financial services, ICT infrastructure and the integration of digital skills training in the education system.
“We need workers who are not just productive, but also adaptive, professional and innovative. Let us use technology to solve problems, drive business and deliver services to our people,” he urged.
The minister also spotlighted environmental and economic sustainability efforts under his ministry, including large scale tree planting, support for green enterprises and improved waste management systems. These interventions, he said, form part of a strategic shift toward a circular economy that creates jobs while preserving the environment.
In reaffirming workers’ rights, Hon. Mposha stated that the government continues to uphold freedoms of association and collective bargaining. He lauded the recent ratification of ILO Convention No. 190, which aims to eliminate violence and harassment in the workplace.
“Minimum wages and working conditions have been improved for key sectors like transport. All employers must comply as we push forward the Decent Work Agenda,” he said.
He concluded by thanking workers and employers for their commitment to national progress and called for renewed dedication to building a better Zambia through innovation, integrity and unity.
“Let our home grown solutions shape the world of work today and for future generations,” Hon. Mposha said.
The Agency.