The Zambian Government has launched the '100 Days of Productivity Activism', a national campaign aimed at strengthening Zambia's productivity culture across public institutions, private enterprises, and communities.
The initiative was officially launched by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Honourable Brenda Tambatamba, during a ceremony held on 5 March 2026 at the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA).
Under the theme "Mindset Shift for a Productive Zambia: Every Positive Action Counts," the campaign encourages citizens to adopt simple, daily actions that boost productivity and support national development.
The event brought together Government officials, social partners, and marked the unveiling of Productivity Ambassadors from all provinces.
These ambassadors-selected from various sectors-will lead community outreach, raise awareness, and promote practical productivity practices throughout the campaign, which runs from 5 March to 12 June 2026.
Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Tambatamba described the initiative as a national movement to transform work habits, improve competitiveness, and promote a culture of efficiency.
"We are not just launching a campaign; we are initiating a movement," she said. "A productive Zambia is not a dream-it is a decision. Every second matters. Every task matters. Every action counts."
Mrs. Tambatamba urged ministries, agencies, local authorities, quasi government institutions, and communities to participate by highlighting their productivity initiatives during the 100 day period.
She urged citizens-including youth, women, and Persons with Disabilities-to embrace productivity as a way of life, noting that consistent positive actions can shape a more innovative and efficient workforce.
International Labour Organization (ILO) Country Office Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, commended the Government for championing a national productivity agenda.
Mr. Chibebe noted that Zambia has made progress in areas that support long-term growth, including economic stabilisation, public sector reforms and digital transformation.
However, he emphasised that productivity challenges persist, with the country still below the 5 percent productivity growth target under the Eighth National Development Plan and with 62.1 percent of workers engaged in low productivity informal jobs.
"This campaign represents a bold and forward-looking effort to strengthen Zambia's productivity culture," he said. "It aligns with national development priorities and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda."
Mr. Chibebe highlighted the ILO's productivity ecosystems for decent work framework, stressing the importance of skills, innovation, workplace cooperation and safe working environments in driving productivity.
He reaffirmed the ILO's readiness to support the campaign through technical assistance.
Representing workers, Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU), Deputy Secretary General, Dr. Evans Chungu said improving productivity must go hand in hand with better working conditions, fair wages and stronger workplace cooperation.
"Workers are ready to contribute more, but productivity must be supported by decent work practices. When employees are motivated and protected, the country benefits," he said.
Zambia Federation of Employers (ZFE) Director, Mr. Shupa Munkombwe said the private sector views the campaign as an opportunity to improve competitiveness and strengthen business performance.
"Improved productivity is vital for business growth. This campaign encourages innovation and efficiency, which are essential for enterprise sustainability," he noted.
