This was highlighted by the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Mrs. Brenda Tambatamba, during a high-level breakfast meeting held at Sarovar Hotel in Lusaka on 24 July 2025.
The meeting brought together senior government officials, development partners, private sector leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss the implementation of a productivity ecosystem for decent work initiative.
In her remarks, Minister Tambatamba stressed the importance of working together to achieve inclusive growth, economic recovery, and poverty reduction.
"Improving productivity is not just about business growth- it is also about creating quality jobs and ensuring social stability," she said.
She noted that Zambia was faced with low productivity and high levels of informal employment, stating that these issues contribute to poor working conditions, lack of social protection, gender inequality, and low wages.
To tackle these challenges, the Ministry- working with the International Labour Organization (ILO)-is developing a Productivity Ecosystem for Decent Work.
This approach focuses on three levels: Macro: National policies and laws, Meso: Sector-level support and coordination, and Micro: Support for individual businesses and workers.
The strategy also includes key areas like skills development, innovation, digital tools, and inclusive labour markets.
The Minister highlighted livestock, tourism, and renewable energy as priority sectors, which align with the government's goals for economic diversification and citizen empowerment.
"By focusing on these sectors, we aim to boost productivity and create decent jobs. This is how we ensure economic growth benefits everyone," she said.
© Allan Mulenga
Speaking at the event, ILO Country Office Director for Zambia, Malawi and Mozambique, Mr. Wellington Chibebe praised the Ministry's leadership and reaffirmed the ILO's support.
"Most Zambians work in small businesses, but these face many challenges-from low productivity to limited access to finance and skills," he said. "This initiative is not just about productivity-it's about investing in people and building a fairer economy."
Mr. Chibebe reaffirmed the ILO's readiness to support Zambia with global expertise, practical tools, and a long-standing commitment to social justice.
© Allan Mulenga
