Reported by: The Agency Media
Date: 1st May, 2025.
Solwezi, North Western Province, Zambia.
The North Western Province has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive economic growth and technological transformation during this year’s Labour Day commemorations, held under the national theme: Shaping Zambias Future of Work Through Home-Grown Solutions for Inclusive Economic Growth.
Speaking at the event in Solwezi, Provincial Minister Hon. Robert Lihefu (MP) delivered a forward looking message that emphasized the provinces role in driving Zambia’s economic transformation through locally-driven initiatives, digital inclusion, and strengthened labour protections.
Hon. Lihefu praised the resilience of the province’s workforce, noting their critical role in sustaining the economy amid the drought and energy challenges of 2024. “Your commitment, professionalism and innovation kept our province moving,” he said, adding that such attributes are vital for navigating a rapidly changing labour landscape.
The Minister outlined several key government initiatives aimed at improving the world of work in Zambia, including:
- Expansion of digital infrastructure to improve rural and urban access to e-commerce and remote jobs.
- Extension of the NAPSA penalty waiver to ease employer compliance in light of recent economic disruptions.
- Reform of pension schemes to strengthen social protection for workers.
- Ratification of ILO Convention No. 190 to combat workplace violence and harassment.
- Implementation of minimum wage adjustments, particularly for transport sector workers.
Highlighting the province’s strides in skills development, Hon. Lihefu reported that over 62,000 youths have benefited from bursaries under the Constituency Development Fund, enabling access to vocational training and secondary education. “This is equipping our people with market relevant skills and enhancing Zambia’s human capital competitiveness,” he said.
Employment creation remains a cornerstone of the government’s agenda, with 980 teachers and 1,664 health workers employed in the province since 2022. Importantly, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to equity, noting that persons with disabilities were among those hired, in line with the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 6 of 2012.
Lihefu also urged employers to register with the Workers Compensation Fund and comply with new labour standards, assuring them of the government’s continued support in fostering a business friendly and worker-protective environment.
As the celebrations concluded, Hon. Lihefu extended congratulations to award recipients and thanked all employers, workers and cooperating partners for their efforts in transforming North Western Province into a hub of opportunity and resilience.
The Agency.