Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique workers commemorate Labour Day in style

MANSA, Zambia (ILO News) - In Malawi, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera during the Labour Day commemorations in Balaka district launched the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Malawi Congress of Trade Unions (MCTU) supported National Code of Conduct on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work.

In his speech, President Chakwera said his government is aware that most workers in the country, face various challenges ranging from rights violation at workplaces and economic challenges.

He said his government is committed to improving the welfare of all workers hence the institution of the K100,000 (about USD 58) tax free band, adding that he will continue to engage employers through the Ministry of Labour to ensure workers enjoy their rights.

And International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office Director for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique, Mr. Wellington Chibebe commended Malawian government for its efforts in combating Gender-Based Violence in the workplace.

Mr. Chibebe also praised workers for their crucial role in driving the country's economy, emphasizing that they are one of the key pillars of economic growth.

"Workers are the backbone of any economy, and their contributions cannot be overstated," he said. "It is imperative that we continue to work together to promote decent work for all, ensuring that every individual has access to safe, equitable, and dignified working conditions."

Meanwhile, President of the Malawi Congress of Trade Union (MCTU) Mr. Charles Kumchenga commended Ministry of Labour for checking against labour violations through labour inspections at companies.

Mr. Kumchenga, however, appealed to government to consider promoting civil servants in various grades.

The theme for commemoration in Malawi was: "Democracy that Works for Decent Work for All."

In Zambia, President Hakainde Hichilema said the government is working on reducing the cost of living and the cost of doing business.

President Hichilema said his government has heard the concerns from the people of Zambia regarding the high cost of living and has started putting in place measures to address it.

The Head of state said the reduction in the price of fuel is one step that will help in lowering the cost of production which will in turn increase production and lower the price of commodities including food.

He was speaking in Mansa during this year's International Labour Day celebrations at Kaole Stadium under the theme: "Shaping Zambia's Future of Work through Home Grown solutions for Inclusive Economic growth".

Meanwhile, President Hichilema said government will continue working on protecting workers' rights and that reports of some employers not allowing employees to belong to unions will not be accepted.

And International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique Officer-in-Charge, Mr. Todini Marecha said urged the government to formulate policies aimed at protecting workers' rights.

On the interpretation of this year's theme, Mr. Marecha said the theme resonates with ILO's resolve to support and rebuild the real economies, through sustained economic growth, using a human-centred approach.

"The theme also aligns well with Zambia's Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) and Vision 2030 which seek to provide an enabling environment for businesses, including small and medium enterprises, to create jobs and promote economic inclusion," he said.

And the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President Mr. Blake Mulala called for continued support of the fight against corruption.

Mr. Mulala urged the government to deal with companies and institutions resisting workers from forming unions at workplaces.

In Mozambique, Minister of Labour, Gender and Social Action Ms. Ivete Alane called on the workers to stand firm and resilient following the recovery process of many companies from the impact of post-election violent demonstrations that have affected the country.

During the International Labour Day commemorations held in Maputo, Ms. Alane explained that the recovery process and stability of the economy was expected to take place in the second half of the year after which the approval process of the minimum wages per activity sector could happen.

And Organisation of Mozambican Workers (OTM) Secretary-General Mr. Alexander Munguambe expressed concern about the difficulties faced by workers and their families in the post-election economic context.

"We are facing a high cost of living today, with the basic basket of a family of five people currently estimated at 42 thousand meticals," Mr Munguambe stated.

Mr. Munguambe further lamented the behaviour of some companies that have made it difficult to set up trade union committees, which constitutes violation of the Labour Law and labour rights.