Zambia Boosts Labor Standards Via ILO Workshop

The workshop, which was held from 23 to 25 July 2025, brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from key government ministries- Labour and Social Security; Community Development and Social Services; Small and Medium Enterprises Development; Commerce, Trade and Industry; Finance and National Planning; and Agriculture- alongside employers, workers, and development partners.

Assistant Labour Commissioner, Mrs. Emelda Sichone, acknowledged Zambia's challenges in meeting its reporting obligations to the ILO, particularly under Convention No. 29 on Forced Labour.

She emphasized the importance of regular training and inclusive participation to improve the accuracy and timeliness of national reports.

"The workshop provided practical tools to improve the quality and timeliness of national reports. It went beyond the traditional tripartite partners by involving other ministries and institutions," said Mrs. Sichone.

Mr. Kasapo Mutale, representing the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development, welcomed the inclusive approach: "SMEs are a key part of our economy. They must be included in the Decent Work Agenda."

Representatives from the Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) and the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) also praised the workshop's practical and interactive approach.

Mrs. Mildred Mukuma of ZFE described it as "educative and interactive," stressing the need for clear guidance on ILO reporting requirements.

Mr. Borniface Phiri of ZCTU added: "We may be making progress, but if our reports do not reflect it, the world will not know."

Mr. Wellington Chibebe, ILO Country Office Director for Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique, highlighted the workshop as part of a broader technical assistance initiative aimed at strengthening Zambia's capacity to meet its reporting responsibilities.

"Member States must take all necessary measures to implement ratified conventions. That includes legal reforms, administrative changes, and inclusive dialogue," he said.

Officiating the event, Minister of Labour and Social Security, Mrs. Brenda Tambatamba, expressed hope that the workshop would equip stakeholders with the knowledge and skills to ensure that national reports accurately reflect Zambia's progress.

"Let this not be a one-time event. Let it mark the beginning of a culture of accountability and collaboration," she urged.

The Minister also confirmed that Zambia is making progress toward ratifying Convention No. 189 on Domestic Workers and Convention No. 102 on Minimum Social Security Standards.

This workshop reaffirmed Zambia's commitment to decent work, social justice, and international cooperation. With continued support from the ILO and active engagement from all sectors, Zambia is well-positioned to lead by example in the global labour community.